The Harnett County Animal Shelter is facing a significant financial penalty after state inspectors cited concerns regarding euthanasia procedures and required documentation.
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services issued a notice assessing nearly $20,000 in penalties following an investigation into practices at the shelter.
Harnett Animal Shelter Fine Follows State Inspection
According to state documents, inspectors found dozens of cases in which dogs were euthanized using intracardiac injections.
Officials stated that required documentation supporting the use of that procedure was not properly completed in multiple cases.
Inspectors also reported concerns regarding compliance with established state animal welfare regulations.
County Responds to Findings
Harnett County officials released a statement emphasizing their commitment to humane treatment of animals.
The county says euthanasia procedures performed by shelter staff have been suspended until retraining is completed.
County leaders have 60 days to pay the penalty, contest the findings, or seek an informal settlement with the state.
The case has drawn attention from animal welfare advocates and pet owners throughout central North Carolina.
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