06/06/2026
EUTHANASIA — LET'S HAVE AN HONEST CONVERSATION
I would like to take a moment to dispell some rumors that are being spread. Apparently some people think "we are just euthanizing all the cats in our care" and that we "don't care anymore" and that couldn't be further from the truth. Unless you are volunteering or you've called and spoken to us directly please don't lie to the public. It simply does the animals no good and causes us to look focus..... Which is finding these animals homes.
Our goal has always been, and continues to be, finding safe, loving homes or rescue placements for every cat in our care. That mission will never change.
However, it is important to be transparent about the realities of animal rescue. Euthanasia is a real and sometimes unavoidable consideration in animal welfare, and avoiding the conversation does not change that fact.
The only reason euthanasia is even being discussed at this time is because we are closing our physical shelter location. Once our brick-and-mortar facility closes, we will no longer have a place to house many of the cats and kittens currently in our care. This is an incredibly difficult reality that we are facing, and one that weighs heavily on us every day.
Throughout this journey, I have shared the successes, struggles, heartbreaks, and victories of rescue work because I believe our supporters deserve honesty. Those who have followed Homeward Bound know the level of commitment we put into every animal that comes through our doors. We invest countless hours, resources, and emotional energy into giving each cat every possible chance at a happy and healthy future.
I want to be very clear: euthanasia is never viewed as a convenient solution or an easy way out. It is a decision that would only be considered after every reasonable option has been exhausted. Before reaching that point, we pursue medical treatment, foster placement, adoption opportunities, rescue partnerships, behavioral support, and every other avenue available to us.
We are actively working alongside Humane Society of Yuma to find possible rescue placements. We are also working on our end to find adopters, fosters, rescue partners, and any other solutions that will allow these cats to remain safe and cared for. We are asking our community to step up now, because the outcome for these animals depends on the support they receive during this transition.
When difficult decisions arise, they are made with careful consideration, compassion, and the animal's best interests at heart. Our responsibility is not only to save lives whenever possible, but also to prevent unnecessary suffering.
We remain committed to fighting for every animal in our care and will continue doing everything within our power to give them the chance they deserve. But we cannot do it alone. If you have ever considered fostering, adopting, networking, or helping a rescue animal in need, now is the time.
❤️🐾 Homeward Bound Animal Rescue Team
