madeleinemccanncontroversy Aimoo Forum List | Ticket | Today | Member | Search | Who's On | Help | Sign In | |
madeleinemccanncontroversy > SAVE MAX > Max Info Go to subcategory:
Author Content
HiDeHo
  • Rank:Diamond Member
  • Score:2851
  • Posts:2851
  • From:USA
  • Register:26/01/2013 4:34 PM

Date Posted:20/12/2015 6:06 PMCopy HTML

ORIGINAL PLEA:

Max is a young dog, a German Shepherd/Spanish mastiff cross. He was rescued as a tiny pup from the mountains of Spain by my friends, Heather and Fred, a kind, elderly couple who moved him back to the UK with them.
He is an energetic, beautiful, confident dog who, due to his developing physical needs and strength, needed younger owners. This broke his rescuers hearts but for their and Max's safety, it was decided to rehome him via the Blue Cross animal shelter at Topcliffe, North Yorkshire. 

In his first and second weeks at the Blue Cross, Max was doing brilliantly and had glowing reports. In the third week his rescuers were told he was dangerous and would be put to sleep within 3 days. Heather and Fred were devestated and tried to take him back, not realising that they had signed a contract giving up all rights. The contract was never explained, neither were they given a copy.

Time was running out so a specialist legal firm was engaged to help Max. The legal firm wants to send an independent assessor to see Max. The Blue Cross are refusing. Heather anf Fread want to visit Max to see how he is. The Blue Cross are refusing. The legal firm are trying to engage with the Blue Cross to help Max. The Blue Cross are refusing. It has now come to cold legal letters and Max is in confinement and no one knows how he is, other than being told he is distressed and trying to escape. He must be so confused and frightened.

Max needs your help to share his story.

On his behalf, a short term sanctuary place has been identified, a forever home has been found with a expert owner and back up rescue support has been secured for life.

Max can be saved. 

Max was a happy, healthy dog. He needed some socialisation with other dogs, although he lived very happily with cats. The Blue Cross knew this yet went against his care plan and let another dog into Max's space, because Max growled, they deemed him dangerous. He is not dangerous, he's alone, afraid and confused. A healthy young dog with a lovely future ahead of him.

Please, on behalf of Max, can you share his story and help save him. 
Thank you.

HiDeHo Share to: Facebook Twitter MSN linkedin google yahoo #1
  • Rank:Diamond Member
  • Score:2851
  • Posts:2851
  • From:USA
  • Register:26/01/2013 4:34 PM

Re:Blue Cross Main Page Comments

Date Posted:20/12/2015 6:23 PMCopy HTML


Visitor Posts

Well I notice there is no transparency here with regards to Max it's about time for some honesty here until that happens I like many others will continue to share his story and no longer support blue cross and encourage others not to support and to use and support other honest rescues

Comments
Rachel Hayball June- every rescue at some point has to put a dog to sleep....
LikeReply4 hrs
June Lesley Burns Rachel I fully appreciate that it is inevitable that some dogs have to be put sleep but in this case it would appear that the whole truth has not been told. Before anything is said yes there are 2 sides to every story in this case one side is telling theirs and the other keeps refusing to answer questions with regards to theirs so my stance remains the same
LikeReply34 hrs
Blue Cross Hi there June, please let us know which questions we can help you with. Many thanks.
LikeReply3 hrs
June Lesley Burns 1. why was an independent behaviour assement declined
2. Why are you denying knowledge of legal involvement 
3. Why was a copy of the contract of surrender not given to the previous owner
4. Why have statements by yourselves been changed (people have screen shotted the original ones)
5. Why when a suitable home with full rescue back up found did you continue with putting to sleep
6. Why did you go a head after 3 weeks 2 of which Max showed no problems

I do have many more questions as do lots of other people but am interested as to what your answers to these will be know doubt corporate ones
LikeReply13 hrs
Blue Cross Hi June, thanks for your questions. Hopefully these answers will help you. 
1. We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations.
As Max was signed over to us, we would be potentially liable if we released Max to anyone else to assess and he caused an injury.

2. There was no formal legal involvement. Throughout the past weeks we have remained directly in touch with his previous owners. We did not receive any contact from a Solicitor formally instructed by the previous owners until Friday, after Max had been euthanised. Following some informal questions by Wheldons earlier in the week, we invited a Solicitor to get in touch but did not hear anything until Friday, when a Partner asked for a verbal update on the case which we freely gave them.

3. We can certainly provide a copy if Mrs Dews would like it.

4. We have updated some of our statements over the past few days to clarify some points some people were unfortunately not understanding and to reflect the changes in Max's case, e.g. from being under assessment to saldy being euthanised.

5. As a responsible pet charity, Blue Cross has a duty of care not to rehome pets when they pose a significant danger to the public and their pets.

6. Max was admitted because his owners weren’t coping with his behaviour issues. We had various conversations with them before and during the handover to us, which made it clear that he had problems and we discussed these and, the possible outcomes for Max, openly with them from the start. Unfortunately despite our care, Max struggled with kennel life from the very start and found it difficult to bond with his carers at the centre. We did everything we could for Max, including keeping him in a quiet ‘home room area’ and training with experienced handlers, but his aggression towards both people and dogs worsened. We had to do what was best for his welfare.
LikeReply2 hrs
June Lesley Burns Thank you for your response my opinion has not changed I would hope a full and frank inquire will take place and all those that are shall we say manipulating the facts are taken to task. I will watch out for a transparent report being published but I doubt very much this will happen. I will be sharing this thread so as to stop you being bombard with these questions from other people and to also allow them to see for themselves your response and how it differs from the previous owners side of things. I for one believe the owners.
LikeReply42 hrsEdited
Jayne Dendle As I understand it the only issues that Max had upon admittance was a nervousness of other dogs. He was surrendered due to one of his elderly owners having cancer. Due to this and having to keep him to lead walks, they felt they were unable to meet his exercise needs. Please could you list the behaviour issues you believe he had. Unfortunately the owner was not given a copy of the contract as she was led to believe by Emma Parnell, that she was signing an informal discussion about Max's needs.
Would it not be standard procedure to provide an owner with a copy of what they had signed if it formed a contract?
LikeReply39 mins
June Lesley Burns Jayne Dendle as you can see from there answers they haven't answered the questions put to them it seems to me they are trying to wriggle out of things x
LikeReply129 mins
Jayne Dendle They are not going to admit they're wrong, they're too worried about all their lovely money going elsewhere. After all they need all the donations they can get to pay their CEO £80,000 a year!
LikeReply121 mins
June Lesley Burns Yes I agree Jayne Dendle xxx
LikeReply117 mins
Susan Harris This isn't explaining why an independent assessor wasn't allowed to see max or why they FOBBED off the owners legal team,thing just dont add up.
LikeReply6 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a reply...
Alice Hunter After THREE weeks ????
LikeReply1 hr
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...
Kevin Hepton to Blue Cross
8 hrs

Just heard about Max. Killed at your Thirsk Branch. Well done. No further support from me.

Comments
Rachel Hayball You Haven't heard the truth then...
LikeReply4 hrs
Blue Cross Hi Kevin, we're really sorry to hear that. Support like yours means we can continue to help thousands of pets every year:https://www.bluecross.org.uk/our-stories. We all wanted the best possible outcome for Max and welfare is our absolute priority. As animal lovers this is one of the hardest decisions for us to make, but our team went the extra mile for Max. If you do want to talk to anyone further please do call our Supporter Care team on 0300 790 9903 or let us know if you have any particular questions. Thanks.
LikeReply3 hrs
Sam End Bsl Jones How was it a hard decision? 
Maxs owner's had found him a secure place with an experienced owner in his breed to live and YOU refused to give him back why?
Why did you choose to end a dog's life when there was absolutely no need to?
You know and a few thousand ppl know that this poor boy was pts eairler than you've said and your trying to cover your tracks with your totally pathetic lies, the truth WILL come out because believe me maxs owner's will not let you get away with it!!!
LikeReply231 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...
Vikki Novelle shared a post to Blue Cross's Timeline.
8 hrs

Online photo dog show for Rescue dogs. Just 10p a class. E-mail your entries to k9vms@live.co.uk 😊

https://m.facebook.com/story.php…

Stop pet shops selling puppies and holding puppy 'stock'

Rescue dog photo show!

Only 10p per photo entered to cover costs! All I ask is that you sign the petition and pledge to share the campaign as far and wide as possible!

Prizes for first to third places per class, plus RBIS and BIS.

Closing date is 30th December at 7pm.

Categories (Rescue dogs only unless specified please):
1. Perfect puppy
2. Majestic male
3. Beautiful bitch
4. Precious pack (all rescues)
5. Rescue and best friends (rescue and non-rescue; any animal or human!)

Please email your photos and the class entered to k9vms@live.co.uk and I will upload them on here. Payment to be sent via PayPal (click on pay friends or family so you don't pay a fee) to k9vms@live.co.uk 😊

If you don't have Paypal I am happy to accept entries if you sign and share the campaign and donate a Christmas gift to your local animal rescue! So no excuses not to enter!!

Please spread the word and good luck x

Vikki x

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/109860

Deleye if not allowed. I have a very sick pet. Summer is a loyal amd loving family dog. She has a life threatening desease called autoimmune heamolytic anemea. Its killing her red blood cells. She only had 8%. She desperately needs a blood transfusion as shes maling too slow a progress. Basically its going to damage her orhans before she can maintain her bloods at the speed shes going. If you cant donate please please share my post.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post x

My loyal and lovely family pet dog Summer was diagnosed with Autoimmune Heamolytic Anemea. A life threatening desease. The lower the blood count…
WWW.GOFUNDME.COM

What happened to the dogs you apparently put down despite foster parents being found, dogs like Max ???

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Gisela, sadly there will be circumstances in which our teams come to the heartbreaking decision that euthanising a pet is the only responsible option, for example if they present a danger to people or other pets (like Max) or they are too ill/injure...See More
LikeReply3 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

Why is BX Thirsk deleting all the Max related posts and blocking any "Visitor Posts" from being made?? Guilty conscience perhaps?

Comments
Blue Cross Hi there Vicki, no guilty conscience. We did our very best for Max. In regards to removing posts, we want to hear your opinions on pets and animal welfare but our pages are a friendly space for people of all ages. We may remove posts containing profani...See More
LikeReply3 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

You need to give answers on your appauling decsion regarding Max - Why no independant assessment? Why not let the previous owner be there - Will no longer be supporting

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Gaynor, we're really sorry to lose your support. We help thousands of pets every year because of it! We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations.
And as Max was signed over to us, we would be potentially liable if we released Max to anyone else to assess and he caused an injury.
LikeReply3 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

After hearing of the appalling betrayal in Thirsk of an elderly couple who only sought the best for their dog, the killing of said dog and the litany of lies that accompanied this incident I regret to say that I find myself unable to any longer support the Blue Cross and will be cancelling my direct debit to you as soon as the banks open Monday morning.

Disgusted to hear that you had Max the German Shepherd/Mastiff cross who was at your Thirsk centre euthanised. I will be cancelling my direct debit with immediate effect.

Dear Blue Cross, I am very sorry to hear the outcome for poor Max. As a qualified canine behaviourist and trainer, with experience of both working with and owning a dog with significant behavioural issues, I realise the decision you made would have been far from easy and in some cases euthanasia is the best option for all. It's unrealistic to think all dogs can be safely rehabilitated, of homed and it only takes a lapse for tragedy to occur. Keep helping those you can help and keep making those decisions to spare suffering and pain to those you can't. An awful lot of dogs owe you their lives.

Comments
Rebecca Edgecombe Actually I'm not. By night I am a volunteer trainer in a small training club with a passion for helping people with their dogs. By day I am a Physicist.
LikeReply1323 hrs
Amy Carlin Fully agree with this post. Kennel stress can change a dogs behaviour in a matter of hours.
LikeReply822 hrs
Rosalie Stoate Mr Woodhouse, you don't know how wrong you are in your assumption.
LikeReply422 hrs
Louis Dobson There were other rescues quite happy to work with him. Putting him down way quite unnecessary and quite bizarrely mean.
LikeReply219 hrs
Rebecca Edgecombe I've seen first hand the horrific injuries caused by a dog handed into rescue with supposedly few issues. That was not in a kennel environment and was with extremely experienced and knowledgeable foster carers. Unfortunately a lot of people think 'love' can fix a dog. Nothing could be further from the truth. A rescue cannot pass a dog on they have concerns about, no matter who they are passing it to. It is not responsible, nor right for the dog and I support the charity in this case for a very unpopular thus very brave decision which was no doubt In the best interests of everyone. I'd urge anyone outraged by this to volunteer at your local training clubs to help owners at base level with issues before they become unmanageable. That's the only way to stop more 'Max' cases. Not blaming charities who try to pick up the pieces of whatever has caused the problem.
LikeReply919 hrs
Louis Dobson I run a dog rescue, and I'm quite heavily involved in dog training (although I'm not a trainer). This dog came in with no aggression issues, he had kennel stress. Which was why responsible rescues, just as capable of handling this sort of thing as Blue Cross (and Blue Cross Thirsk is a shonky little place with 25 dogs, it's not the Microsoft of the canine world by any means), were quite prepared to handle the dog themselves. 

But Blue Cross were determined to have it their way and would cooperate with no one. 

They also hid from the solicitors and bamboozled the elderly owner into signing a contract quite other than the one she thought she was signing. 

Yes there are occasions when you have to put a dog down. This wasn't one of them. And BX's desperate attempts to spin it as such are deeply disturbing, and doomed to failure.
LikeReply618 hrs
Michael French Rebecca Edgecombe - i know your a blue cross worker for a fact! a physicist is not stupid enough to put such a stupid status publicly and not checking out the facts... other rescues were willing to take max to work with him so he had a second chance... not only that there wasmore then one... he had a second chance to be worked with but blue cross refused... they could of signed all rights over so he could of had a second chance, but they PTS because they got caught out from the general public... ive been constantly lied to by blue cross head office and blue cross thirsk? dont even get me started... this isnt the first case against blue cross about them PTS dogs for virtually no reason and them saying "dogs behaviour changed", they had many options to give the dog a second chance to be worked with elsewhere but refused... blue cross should of accepted the outside help... there behavioural experts dont exist or lack in qualifications/knowledge, blue cross needs to step up and be honest with the public, communication and HONESTY is key... we will respect and understand honesty... lying will always be found out and frowned upon! please feel free to message me about the conversations ive had with blue cross about there recent antics, theyve lost me helping them out in the future if there simply going to PTS and not accept help... the problem here now is... were not getting answers and AGAIN.... ONLY THE DOGS WILL SUFFER BECAUSE US HUMANS ARE DISHONEST SELFISH HUMAN BEINGS THAT BICKER & ARGUE! - be honest about max and get the publics support back blue cross like i originally told you too or else this WILL spiral out of control as youve seen so far your telephones have had a bashing, your reviews in thirsk branch have gone down, comments and posts have been blocked on yourthirsk page because you cant handle the traffic of it! your losing donations left right and centre, one person pulled back £500! thats a large donation... because of your lies and dishonesty and lack of communication not only is max and his family suffering but the rest of the dogs needing help will suffer now, i personally warned you over the phones and online numerous times this would happen but you refused to listen... well here we are, congratulations
LikeReply113 hrs
Rebecca Edgecombe Actually I lied. I'm an analytical chemist (specialising in environmental pollution) by qualification but I fell into physics 11 years ago. Click my profile and see I spent time in the summer in Ukraine and Chernobyl more specifically. I'd love to work for the Blue Cross but sadly live nowhere near one.
LikeReply29 hrs
Dominique Taylor There were offers from other rescues that would have helped Max! The Blue Cross decided to play god and have now put a lot of other dogs at major risk due to people no longer supporting them!!
LikeReply6 hrs
Lorna Fisher So you are a ‘Physicist’ who ‘fell into Physics 11 years ago’ - interesting. In what field do you specialise and what was the title of your PhD? I ask out of interest as I could not find any trace of you or any of your publications on the IoP, APS, IEEE, IET or even The Russian Academy of Science (PAH) databases. I included the Russian Academy search as you referenced your visit to Chernobyl in your recent comment, implying that you were there on a work basis? Unless I’ve picked up wrong of course? I myself have visited Chernobyl several times now, although not on a work basis due to the strict security clearance requirements. I was simply there on a tourist visa and residing in Kiev, not too far from майдан незалежності (Independence Square - just like in your picture).
You’ll notice my use of quotation marks in relation to ‘Physicist’- I’ll assume this was a typing error on your part as the term ‘Physicist’ is not actually recognised in it’s own right, it’s merely an indication of a sub-genre to which your job best fits, i.e. Medical Physicist, Thermal Physicist, Quantum Physicist, Nuclear Physicist. I know many professionals in the field of Physics and not one of them, myself included, would ever refer to themselves as a Physicist. It’s not only embarrassing but insulting to the profession as a whole, but although I’m sure you know that already. 
Finally, I’m struggling to understand why you felt the need to even mention ‘Physicist’ or Analytical Chemist in your reply as it does nothing to substantiate your previous comments in a post that emanated from the actions of the Blue Cross and their behaviour towards Max and his family. In my experience people only use these flash titles to intimidate people, hoping for the “Oh she must be very intelligent so I won’t question her” response, which is quite sad really and says a lot about a person.
LikeReply4 hrs
Vanessa Waddon Erm, I think you will find Rebecca wasn't trying to be smart or intimidate, rather prove she doesn't work for the Blue Cross in response to an earlier comment. I am honestly dumbfounded that someone has so much time on their hands to research a complete stranger who happened to express an opinion on a Facebook page.
LikeReply54 hrs
Lorna Fisher Vanessa, I'm sure Rebecca can speak for herself, however I'll reply as you as you've taken the time to write. That 'research' as you so put it took less than 30 seconds, I typed her name into a database. It actually took longer to type the comment. Please don't judge me by your standards.
LikeReply4 hrs
Rebecca Edgecombe I would have said that the fact I can express myself with correct spelling and grammar would be enough to intimidate a lot of people on Facebook if I'm honest. Thankfully for me (and my mortgage) my employer pays me as a physicist and not a dog trainer. They're a member of the IoP by the way. And the IET. No need for personal registration of those bodies. I must look into the Russian Academy of Science. That would be epic.
LikeReply21 hr
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...
counts so I can't comment on that. But the posts I've seen on here over the last 24 hours is quite frankly utter madness. While I know feelings are running high regarding Max but to call the staff all things under the sun is appalling. The staff working in Blue Cross do not dislike animals if they did they wouldn't work there. They want the best for the animals but sometimes the animals for whatever reason are not suitable for rehoming due to issues they have. Also dog attacks have increased over the last years which I imagine has a knock effect with rescue centres and they have to be more careful with which dogs they rehome now maybe than 5 or 10 years ago.
Comments
Jo Roach I have been polite in all my comments to Blue Cross. Blue Cross are a charity who accept public donations so the public have a right to ask questions and receive detailed answers, people want to know what a charity does with money that they have donated.
LikeReply223 hrs
Cherry Beresfield Max did not have 'issues' and many of the people commenting DO know the owners. It would appear the truth has not been told about this case.
LikeReply222 hrs
Louis Dobson Quite. It would be interesting to know at what point the BS started. Do Blue Cross themselves know the full truth about what happened up in Thirsk?
LikeReply18 hrs
Michael French i havent seen any conflicting stories? ive seen one story from heathers family thats smooth straight and honest... then i get blue cross's 20+ stories of lies and bollocks
LikeReply113 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

R.I.P SWEET DARLING
ITS SO VERY SAD:-(
Will the owners be allowed his body so they can at least bury him?
It won't bring him back but may give them some kind of comfort to know they themselves laid him to rest 
Xxxxxxxxx

Anthea Erran Oxley's photo.
Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...
Dominique Taylor They won't give them his body or ashes!
LikeReply6 hrs

I am really struggling to understand why you put Max to sleep when other rescues were offering to take him?

You would help yourselves by just admitting you made a mistake. Human error happens all the time & that is what it was. You did not do the right thing. You had other options that would have helped this dog, instead you chose to give up & not try & help. You would gain a lot more respect by telling the truth instead of making up these lies.

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Hayley, thanks for your message about Max. All of us here wanted a different outcome for poor Max but his aggressive behaviour towards both people and dogs had become so severe it made him a danger to others and unsafe to rehome. As animal lovers, this is one of the hardest decisions for us to make but our team went the extra mile for Max and have the extensive expertise needed to make sure that this decision is the right one.
LikeReply22 hrs
Hayley Balfe He came to you with no aggression issues. So what did you do to cause him to become so aggressive? I think you need to change your behaviourist, if a dog comes in fine & then turns aggressive. You had other options & you know it. More lies & excuses! You are just making people angry! You do not know it all, everybody makes mistakes. It just takes a better person to admit it. I pray for the other dogs in your care, poor innocent pets being cared for by murderers!
LikeReply221 hrs
Tina Jones How did you go the extra mile exactly? For 2 weeks his behaviour was brilliant, then you made a mistake and allowed another dog to get too close to Max. Your extra mile for Max lasted less than a week. You didn't give that poor puppy a chance.
LikeReply519 hrs
Louis Dobson It may have started as a mistake, but for some reason BX just would not row back from the edge. They're completely committed now, sadly. 

And I still wonder if Blue Cross actually knew exactly what Blue Cross Thirsk were up to.
LikeReply17 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

This is my post from 20 hours ago - I am still awaiting a reply to my questions.

Jo RoachBlue Cross

20 hrs ·

Blue Cross, maybe the question that needs to be asked is why Max's behaviour changed so dramatically within your care, to the point that after just 3 weeks, he was deemed so aggressive that he had to be put to sleep? Surely a full initial assessment was carried out? At this point his behaviour cannot have been deemed aggressive, so what happened to him in the short time he was at Blue Cross to make him aggressive? I would like a reply to my questions please from Blue Cross.

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Jo, apologies we missed your previous post. There was no sudden deterioration. Max was admitted because his owners weren’t coping with his behaviour issues. We had various conversations with them before and during the handover to us, which made it clear that he had problems and we discussed these and, the possible outcomes for Max, openly with them from the start. Unfortunately despite our care, Max struggled with kennel life from the very start. We did everything we could for Max, including keeping him in a quiet ‘home room area’ and training with experienced handlers, but his aggression towards both people and dogs worsened. Several assessments were carried out on Max from our Thirsk team and our expert behavioural team. 

It is a team decision to put a pet to sleep and is only made after we have considered all the options and know their behavioural problems could not be resolved either at a centre, in a new home or with their previous owners. We had a legal responsibility as well as a moral duty of care in relation to his welfare and the risk he posed to people and other dogs. Hope that helps explain things a bit further. Thanks again for your comments.
Jo Roach This conflicts with information provided by his owners.
Jo Roach How do you measure risk level please and what was his risk level at the time of entering Blue Cross and his level at the time he was put to sleep?
Jo Roach According to his owners, Blue Cross reported that Max was doing well for the first two weeks, please can you explain this discrepancy, are you saying now that he wasn't doing well?
Jo Roach Did Blue Cross deem Max aggressive towards people on entering Blue Cross?
LikeReply23 hrs
Jo Roach What exactly are the behaviours that a dog displays which Blue Cross consider aggression towards humans?
LikeReply123 hrs
Shirley Silvers I believe that BLUE CROSS ARE TELLING LIES.......YOU HAD MAX IN ISOLATION........YOU ONLY HAD HIM FOR THREE WEEKS.....WHY DID YOU NOT ALLOW AN INDEPENDENT BEHAVIOUR ASSESSMENT TO BE CONDUCTED.
LikeReply23 hrs
Jo Roach I do understand that some dogs require euthanasia due to aggression, I want to know what behaviours Max demonstrated that resulted in his death and what measures were taken to address these issues prior to death?
LikeReply23 hrs
Helen Greenwood I have to wonder how many of u slagging off the blue cross have worked in rescue, animals behaviour can change rapidly in that environment, owners lie about their animal, animal haters dont tend to work in rescue and pts is never an easy decision, get a grip and find a worthy cause to bang your drums about and set up petitions about, like puppy farms, cruel farming practices, illegal hunting etc etc etc, the list is endless
LikeReply221 hrs
Jo Roach There is nothing wrong in asking questions about events which resulted in Max being put to sleep. I do not expect that people working in rescue would be animal haters, but equally so, you wouldn't expect a serial killer to be a GP, yet there has been one. A charity that is funded by public donations is open to public scrutiny and if supporters are asking questions, they need to be answered. I haven't "slagged" Blue Cross off, I have been polite and not abusive.
LikeReply220 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick Why do you keep stating he was handed over because of behavioural issues when this is a blatant lie?

He was handed over because his owners are in deteriorating health and wanted him to go to a younger family so he would have a better quality of life.

I find it shocking that you continue to lie in your statements about this dog.
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick You were also told not to put him in an enclosed area with another dog which you ignored.
Emily Stevens I am curious as to why they were told not to put him in an enclosed area with another dog?
LikeReply123 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick Max was attacked by 3 greyhounds in March of this year. He had not shown any outward aggression towards dogs but it took him a little longer to feel comfortable around a dog he'd never met before. The intro had to be done gradually rather than just suddenly bringing a new dog in.
LikeReply123 hrs
Emily Stevens Oh I see. That must have been frightening. I must confess I am still a bit confused though. If Max showed no aggression to other dogs then why the need to go slowly when meeting new dogs? If he wasn't going to do anything bad then why exercise caution? What happened to the Greyhounds who attacked him do you know?
LikeReply22 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick He didn't show aggression but he was wary. A gradual introduction meant he could get a scent of the dog at a distance. Like if they were in a field and his owner walked one hundred or so feet behind the new dog so he could get a sniff and realise that the other dog wasn't going to attack. 

Max had no injuries in the greyhound attack and I believe that nothing happened to the greyhounds.
LikeReply122 hrs
Diane Moore Emily, no one can predict the reaction of a frightened dog - hence the need for caution. It's just common sense which clearly was lacking in the BC staff
LikeReply19 hrs
Emily Stevens I only ask because it has been stated that he had no behaviour problems and yet he couldn't be in the same space as another dog? It doesn't quite make sense. You are quite right, nobody can 100% predict the reactions of a frightened dog although an educated guess will tell you that you would probably see a fight or flight response depending on the circumstances and options available to the dog.
LikeReply18 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Hayley Balfe You are not helping yourselves by lying! You obviously didn't do everything in your power! If he didn't like kennels you should have accepted help from a foster carer. You killed an innocent dog! When are you just going to admit you were wrong!
Vera Dunkin Blue Cross I will point out you also have a legal responsibility for 'transparency'.
Vera Dunkin I will also add you are running a television advert at present look at the wording I'm sure advertising standards will be!
Janis Coeshall Why are people so rude? You do have an answer which you refuse to accept there is no point in abusing people. You can believe what you like but please be civil!
LikeReply23 hrs
Jo Roach I have not been rude or abusive towards Blue Cross, I am merely asking questions which have not been answered at all or the answer given has been inadequate.
LikeReply122 hrs
Jo Roach The consequence of Blue Cross not answering questions will be that some people will cease to support and to donate to them. It is in the charity's interests to be transparent. Incidents like this result in bad publicity and lead to a lack of trust.
LikeReply322 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

Freddie would like to wish everyone at The Blue Cross a very Happy Christmas. Thank you for finding me a home 3 & a half years ago. I am 18 & a half now and doing pretty well. XXX

Elayne Cross's photo.

I am utterly disgusted with your recent actions regarding Max...the dog that you euthanized recently and as a result am withdrawing my support to your organisation. An interpreter interprets as he see's fit and your decision to KILL was based on YOUR interpretation. An independent assessment should have been carried out and if someone wants their dog back...how dare you not allow that!!
How dare you take such a decision. Did you even allow him to 'pass' with those he loved???? You are utterly reprehensible and the staff that made this decision have done you more damage than you might think!

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Denise, we're very sorry to hear you're upset about Max. Thanks to support like yours we can help thousands of pets every year. We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations. We would be potentially liable if we released Max to anyone else to assess and he caused an injury. All of us here wanted a different outcome for poor Max.
Denise McGillis While I appreciate your response, I'm sorry but your reply isn't legally correct is it....all you had to do was return Max to his owner and your absolved of responsibility, unless of course you're concerned that it was your kennels that created his behaviour? If another behaviourist had agreed to examine Max and signed a disclaimer again, where's your liability. You may have faith in your team and that's to be applauded but blind faith is a dangerous this...experts can and do get things wrong. If you don't believe or accept this, you need to rethink your beliefs. As an example, a group of so called experts argued that the dog's taken from Michael Vick were agressive and couldn't be rehomed/rehabilitated....look how that went!!!! YOU didn't want a different outcome...If you did, you'd have allowed other options and worst of all...allowed him to go in love not in the arms of a stranger. THAT is cruel and unforgivable.
Denise McGillis I'd also like to add....While your talking about the legal imperative. Where's the moral one????
Lorna Lo Well said Denise.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Mellen Jones This isn't really answering this lady's questions??
Andrea Last They're only replying to posts from people saying donations are stopping! That's done it for me too I won't be giving them any more money
LikeReply17 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Veronica Baker That is ducking the question, why was his care plan not followed, your experienced people knew he was frightened of being in an enclosed area with dogs, having previously being attacked, why did you ignore legal representation, and why are you saying he was handed in because of behavioural problems, when it was due to his owners ill health. Never ever will I support you again
Anne Gater I personally think the dog was obviously stressed and frightened. To pts should not have been an option if the owners wanted him back. I too am disgusted and very saddened. My 12 year old cocker would, I'm sure, react in the same way if she was taken away from me.
Anthea Erran Oxley I can not think what must have been worse for this baby, firstly taken away from the only home he knew,from the people he loved then to be in a strange environment with lots of loud sounds then to be taken on a journey to his death! See it through the dogs eyes! Can you even begin to imagine what he went through before he was cruelly taken away from the world:-( it breaks my heart in to pieces!!!
Joanna Gillett Denise I'm with you 100%. Shameful erroneous behaviour on their part only worsened by their puerile blind faith in their own team.
LikeReply223 hrs
Joanna Gillett I should also add that Denise is correct in her accurate assessment of damage caused by staff. Writing this from Florida USA.
LikeReply20 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

I think, as an organisation funded by public money, the Blue Cross should be answering question from the public, regarding Max. Directing comments to a link, which contains information strongly disputed by the dog's owners and family, is not good enough. There are salient points which need to be addressed. To ignore questions, or to lie about the circumstances, will result in loss of faith and funds for the BC. Someone needs to take responsibility for the tragic events surroundin this case.

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Lynda, many thanks for getting in touch. Please do let us know which questions you would like us to answer and we'll do our very best. We're here to help smile emoticon
Lynda Bryant Why did the dog only become aggressive after you had had him three weeks?
Blue Cross There was no sudden deterioration. Max was admitted because his owners weren’t coping with his behaviour issues. We had various conversations with them before and during the handover to us, which made it clear that he had problems and we discussed thes...See More
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Why do you deny the owner had legal representation?
Blue Cross Throughout the past weeks we have remained directly in touch with his previous owners. We did not receive any contact from a Solicitor formally instructed by the previous owners until Friday, after Max had been euthanised. They have asked for a verbal update on the case which we freely gave them.
LikeReply21 hrs
Sam End Bsl Jones We know your hiding the fact max was pts before you said he was!!! Liars! !
LikeReply5 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a reply...
Lynda Bryant Why did you refuse to allow them to be with the dog as he died?
Blue Cross Once a decision has been made to euthanise a pet, our team consider the individual pets needs. At this time the priority is the welfare of the pet and ensuring the euthanasia is peaceful and stress free. We considered whether it would be beneficial to Max for his previous owners to be present, but agreed that this would be likely to be extremely distressing for everyone. Whilst we understand the former owners may have wanted to be there, we had to do what we felt was best for Max.
LikeReply21 hrs
Sam End Bsl Jones Because he was pts before they said he was its obvious now they are trying to cover their tracks!
LikeReply5 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynda Bryant Why did you not consider the offer of behavioural training?
Blue Cross We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Why did you not allow him to go to another rescue, which was offered?
Blue Cross We do not believe a pet can live a happy, healthy life confined permanently to kennels. Max was not happy in kennels or being around other dogs, so a sanctuary where he’d need to be confined for life would have been a terrible life for him.
LikeReply21 hrs
Sam End Bsl Jones He was for 2 weeks liars!
LikeReply4 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynda Bryant Why did you not return him to the owner?
Char Mullarkey They are legally singed over through transfer of ownership to bx
LikeReply23 hrs
Blue Cross As a responsible, leading pet charity, Blue Cross cannot rehome pets when they pose a significant danger to the public and other animals – this includes giving them back to previous owners or people they may nominate. We did discuss this with his previous owners when they brought him in to us, and we believed they understood our position.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a reply...
Lynda Bryant Why did you not consider the home found for him, by the owner?
Blue Cross As a responsible pet charity, Blue Cross has a duty of care not to rehome pets when they pose a significant danger to the public and their pets.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Whynwas no independent assessment allowed?
Blue Cross We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Why do you claim he was surrendered for behavioural issues, when he was simply too boisterous for elderly owners? They did not want him rehomed for aggressive problems, he had never been aggressive?
Blue Cross Max’s owners were not coping with his strength and problem behaviour. We had various conversations with them before and during the handover to us which made it clear that he had these problems.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Why does your ad imply dogs will survive, BTW? This is misleading to potential donors. Three weeks is an inadequate time span for the rehab of a very young dog...had this actually been necessary.
Blue Cross Sadly there will be circumstances in which our teams come to the heartbreaking decision that euthanising a pet is the only responsible option, for example if they present a danger to people or other pets.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Having read comments from the owner's family and friends, I believe answers are required for all the above, and possibly more...
Vicki Morton Can you, Blue Cross,
provide absolute proof of exactly when (Date & Time)!Max was killed (I hesitate to use the word euthanise as it has a whole different meaning)
LikeReply120 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

I have seen the new Blue Cross advert twice today & I am incensed, saddened & sickened by the thought that ANYONE who abandons their pet dog in this way should be prosecuted!!! So, I would like to add to the advert... A DOG IS FOR LIFE NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS!!! PLEASE THINK REALLY CAREFULLY BEFORE BUYING THAT CUTE PUPPY, AS YOUR ACTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES!

I would like to know why you are deleting posts on your pages questioning your euthanasia of Max.
I would also like to know why there are so many lies in your statement relating to the circumstances surrounding his time with you and his death.
Finally I would like to know, when there were other options available which would have absolved you from responsibility, you killed a young, fit, previously happy and well-loved dog?

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Jan, many thanks for your comment. As we state in the description of our page, we want to hear your opinions on pets and animal welfare but please remember this is a friendly space for people of all ages. We may remove posts containing profanities, threats, bullying, discrimination, offensive or explicit comments and graphic photographs and videos. Spam, duplicate posts and pets being advertised for sale may also be deleted or hidden too. 

If there are particular questions you have about our statement then please do let us know and we'll do our best to help. We all wanted the best possible outcome for poor Max but as a responsible pet charity we simply cannot put people or other pets at risk.
Jan Smith I have asked 3 specific questions, none of which you have answered.
LikeReply22 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Wendy Moran-brown I have read through all the previous posts concerning the wrongfull euthanasia of max and NOT ONCE have you answered any of the questions, you have basically used more or less the the same answer, you didn't give that poor puppy, YES PUPPY, he wouldn't have been an adult untill about 3 years of age, a chance at all, my 11 1/2 stone Rotty had fear aggression with people and dogs, I had a behaviourist in and tried other methods as well, although still unsure of some dogs she's now a lot better, I'm not trained but I took advice and put lots of work into helping her, where was the help for max, 3 weeks...... It can take months.... Shame on blue cross!!!
LikeReply116 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

Large charities like Blue cross do this all the time. They think they know best & will never accept help when they need it. They are all about the money & don't care about the animals. We are better off donating to the small charities that need the money & that don't work like a business. I hope this brings you down a peg or two Blue Cross! Now that one case has been publicised but I'm sure there have been many more like this. RIP sweet boy 💙

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Hayley, we're really sad to hear this. We help thousands of pets every year thanks to the lovely support from our donors and friends here and you'll see so many fantastic cases of this on our website and Facebook pages. We all wanted the best possible outcome for Max and as animal lovers this is one of the hardest decisions for us to make.
Hayley Balfe Well not really, the best answer was an easy decision to make. You were offered help & you turned it down. It's about time you owned up to murdering this dog!
Diane Moore They're just giving a stock statement to every question and not actually giving a specific answer
LikeReply19 hrsEdited
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

Re: Blue Cross, Thirsk - The killing of Max

I am so disgusted with the actions of the Blue Cross in relation to this issue, particularly to their cavalier attitude in defending their actions. After being a regular monthly supporter of the Blue Cross for many, many years I have reluctantly, and with a heavy heart, today cancelled my mandate in their favour with my bank and they will no longer receive my support. Instead of trying to defend their actions by quoting extracts from their policy document they need to explain, in detail, line by line, the course of events and their reactions to those events that eventually gave them no alternative than to take the action they did. They must realise the depth of feeling in this matter and that it will not just go away.

Comments
Blue Cross Hi there Maurice, we've responded to your private message if you would like to take a look. Many thanks for your messages.
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

I have no words! I'm shocked by the death of a healthy dog especially when many life lines were offered but I now also worry for all the other animals in your care as many will no longer support you but those animals still need care food and vet treatment. I am also worried as due to being so quick to put poor max to sleep how many more has this happened to and how many more WILL it happen to. People have entrusted you with there pets, in hope they will start a new life in a forever loving home. Poor baby max will never have that now:-(

I think it is a shame that everyone is so judgemental. This charity does outstanding work nationally. There are plenty of pets that rely on the clinical services, free microchipping has has been provided and thousands of pets have been rehomed which without this charity may have had a very different outcome. Team members work their hardest and often over stretch themselves to benefit the pets because they do care, they do give their absolute best and ultimatley they are pet lovers themselves. They would never ethuanise a pet without exhausting every possible avenue and at the same time they have to be responsible about the avenues they take to protect other pets and the public.

Comments
Anthea Erran Oxley I can not understand why anyone would defend those who murder a dog for no reason!
Louis Dobson Taking the fever out of it, of course sometimes shelters have to euthanase dogs. 

However Max was not remotely aggressive before Blue Cross got hold of him, and would undoubtedly have been fine if they simply sent him home. 

If they weren't prepared to take that risk though, they were offered a breed expert owner with rescue backup. 

And if they were too anal to take that tiny risk, then they were offered totally safe spaces at other rescues. 

But Blue Cross weren't prepared to involve anyone else, and executed a frail cancer patient's beloved pet. 

They're not fit for purpose, should get out of the shelter exercise and stick to providing medical services. 

There are plenty of other charities to support.
Lauren Chilton Ok so although the media and owners said he wasn't agressive he still may have been demonstrating anti social behaviours which can escalate. At the end of the day most pet owners seriously misunderstand their dogs behaviour.
LikeReply123 hrs
Louis Dobson Blue Cross also assessed him as not aggressive. If aggression appeared, it did so under their care, as a result of their actions. 

They were offered a variety of solutions, including passing him to other rescues. 

But they were determined to put him down. 

Why? Ego? Arrogance? Reluctance to admit error? Who knows? Some people who know the centre well are convinced he was already dead.
LikeReply223 hrs
Lauren Chilton All this hearsay does not help anyone though does it and if you do work in rescue then you would never use the terms ego or arrogance to explain any animal welfare charity staff as the wouldn't work in that industry if they did there is too much self sacrifce and hard work to be done for that and they care otherwise they would not work for a charity
LikeReply222 hrs
Louis Dobson I beg to differ. I deal with people driven by ego every day, and the most useful maxim is "There is no limit to what you can achieve if you don't care who gets the credit."

I don't think it's hearsay, most of the facts are firmly established. There are odd gaps though, like how Max became "aggressive" and why on Earth they wouldn't pass him on to another rescue, and we'd all like them filled in.

However it looks like BX would rather be beaten with the Internet Stick than tell us what happened, which makes us all suspect it reflects very badly on them.
LikeReply122 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lorna Lo Except they didn't pursue every possible avenue. Did you even bother to read the owners side? The owners actually found a foster home with rescue backup to take max but blue cross,refused and instead killed him. The owners asked for an independent assessment, blue cross refused. The owners asked for an independent behaviorist to work with max, blue cross refused.You have to ask yourself that why did a dog turn so,dangerously aggressive ( in their opinion as they refused to let him be independently assessed ) in three weeks in their care when there was no history of behavioural issues?
LikeReply3Yesterday at 6:12amEdited
Lauren Chilton Yes i did read the owners side thankyou but once a pet is signed to a charity they have a legal obligation and duty of care. If Max had bitten someone at the next rescue, another dog or the public then they would have been liable and as a responsible charity they didn't do that
LikeReply23 hrs
Lorna Lo Actually when you sign the dog over to another rescue, they are no longer liable. Same principle applies as to an owner. Another rescue was also willing to take him on, so why did they refuse to sign him over? You obviously didn't read that bit. You obviously also missed the bit where it was said max has no history of aggression let alone biting someone lol. The issue is the conflicting reports that blue cross have issued with regards . To his behaviour and the owners statement. Blue cross admitted the first week he was fine, it was only over the next two weeks later that he suddenly turned into a dangerously agressive dog. If he had been truly agressive they wouldn't have taken him on in the first place and he certainly wouldn't have been 'fine' during the first week with him, You can bet had this been my dog I would have demanded independant assessing too! If they had nothing to hide and were right in their assessment then they wouldn't have refused.
LikeReply21 hrsEdited
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Hayley Balfe I have no words personally. But Just to let you know.....This is not the first time & won't be the last a big know it all charity makes this mistake. The only difference here is that this case has been made publicised. This happens all the time in this size charity. They would rather PTS a healthy animal than accept help. It's run like a business not a charity.
LikeReply2Yesterday at 6:19amEdited
Lauren Chilton Where is your evidence?
LikeReply23 hrs
Hayley Balfe I have worked for a big children's charity & know a few people who work for big animal charities. They waste money as they want to keep the budget the same every year. Look at their Accounts, they have the same assets every year. Where's your evidence? Money making!
LikeReply21 hrsEdited
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Joanne Park I cannot believe some of the shocking vitriol being published here about Blue Cross and Max. Many of you are declining to understand the meaning of the word 'healthy'. Do you think a charity should only ever consider physical health when assessing an animal's welfare? The mental/ behavioural health of an animal is equally important and goes straight to the heart of quality of life.
A young dog was PTS, this is of course terribly sad and distressing. Was he PTS for no good reason? Because the centre had no space? NO. 
The original owners of this dog made a choice to sign his care over to a charity - they signed a legal document to do so. 
Lauren is completely correct in her comment that the charity would never have euthanised Max without a thorough behavioural and welfare assessment. They are not 'murdering scum' which is about the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. I know of smaller, local charities who euthanised whole litters of puppies and kittens because of space constraints and the belief that it was kinder than trying to find homes for them. Indiscriminate euthanasia.
I know of a charity that has a number of aggressive, seriously mentally damaged dogs in kennels that have been there over 3yrs and will never be rehomed. 
Tell me which is worse?
You are all screaming and shouting when you only have half a story, a cleverly edited story the press knew would cause such a response. 
Instead on jumping on this media stoked circus try applying some energy to actually supporting animal welfare, which ever organisation you choose, get up in arms over the lack of neutering that leads to hundreds of animals in shelters throughout the UK - thus leading to charities being forced to turn away many more animals through lack of space and resource - which leads to animals suffering and dying.
Scream about that.
Scream for the animals that still need help.
Then again the media wouldn't be remotely interested in that as it wouldn't stir up this kind of shocking name calling and abuse.
Lorna Lo Read the owners side and their daughters statements in their fundraiser before you comment and pass judgement joanne park. 

A healthy dog with NO AGGRESSION history was put to sleep after just three weeks in this charities care as he became in their...See More
LikeReply3Yesterday at 8:49amEdited
Joanne Park Lorna have you seen a copy of the Blue Cross admission form? Have you seen what was written down by the owner as the reason for admission? 
I would imagine Blue Cross refused an independent behavioural assessment because they have a superb team of qual...See More
Lauren Chilton Thankyou Joanne Park for understanding.
LikeReply323 hrs
Lorna Lo If they had nothing to hide they would have gone for the independant assessment, just to prove they were right in their assessment of max. So why didn't they? 

. If you don't agree with your doctor, you're entitled to a second opinion aren't you? Doctors don't always get their diagnosis right and neither do charities like blue cross.
LikeReply21 hrs
Hayley Balfe Wow! And where is your evidence??? The owners have been very honest, along with other charities that have spoken out to say they offered help but were ignored. Blue cross have said nothing or shown nothing to prove their innocence! Why because they can't!
LikeReply21 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick I've written a full account of what happened after speaking to Max's owners. I can assure you that my work has not been cleverly edited in any way, shape or form.
Cheryl Nelson Not much of a journalist when you only get one side of the story though
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick BX are declining comment. So yes I did try.
Joanne Park And yet you chose to write an article guaranteed to cause this sort of response with only one side of what is undoubtedly a considerably more complex story than has been told to you, and ultimately published.
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick I spoke to a lot of people before putting this together. I also have sixteen years experience working with dogs. 

It's not difficult to see that more could have been done for Max and you just have to see the state his owners are in to know how distraught they are that they trusted Max to be cared for and rehomed, yet this was the outcome? 

Max deserved more and even though the offers were there, the Blue Cross denied them. What makes me even more sick is that they denied his sick owner to be with him when he died. There was absolutely no need for that.
Cheryl Nelson I've worked with dogs for over 20 years but it doesn't qualify me to pass judgement on this case. I wasn't present when Max was assessed and neither was anyone commenting on here, so no one has the full facts no matter what they claim. But why let the truth get in the way of a good story, eh?
Lauren Chilton I agree we all have experience but we weren't there so its pretty unfair to slander a charitable organisation that just try to help pets that owners can no longer keep or manage. Where would they be?
LikeReply23 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick His owners were and I have spoken to them. And the fact Blue Cross refused to let an independent assessor come to the centre and assess him. 

Blue Cross have shot themselves in foot with their statement about Max being handed over due to behavioural issues. It was due to his owner being ill.

My history as a journalist for Our Dogs is proof enough that I always go for the truth. I took this on because his family deserve answers.
LikeReply123 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick Lauren Chilton that's the tragic thing about this case. Max's owners trusted the Blue Cross to find him a good home. His owners even found someone to take him who had years of experience with large breeds and with full support of a rescue. At least two other rescues offered him a place where he would not be in a kennel and would have been placed in a foster home with someone who could handle large breeds. Those offers were denied. This dog was put to sleep despite numerous offers and pleading for his life.
LikeReply123 hrs
Lauren Chilton I am not judging anyone and reserving an open mind
LikeReply22 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick And I am only interested in the truth. As someone who has worked wth dogs for sixteen years I am more than positive Max could have been saved. Knowledgeable and breed specific rescues offered him a place and were refused. This dog did not deserve to die.
Joanne Park NO animal does. What is deserved can not always come into it. This is what being a responsible animal welfare organisation has to consider - and being a loving pet owner for that matter.
Do you realise that by inciting the kind of vile abuse that the charity is now receiving, by likely reducing the amount of support the charity receives and by people calling for the "murdering scum" to be shut down - you run the very real risk of countless animals dying. Animals that may not get help. 
There is a bigger picture here
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick I don't agree with the abuse, profanity or name calling. I put Max's story out there because it needed to be heard. What I do agree with are people asking to know the truth when blatant lies are being told.

The Charity have brought this on themselves in their lack of care and refusal to let an independent assessor come onto their premises to assess Max and despite other, more qualified rescues offering him a place and taking full responsibility for him, he was taken to a vet and put to sleep. This should never have happened.
Lauren Chilton No pet deserves to die but thousands do due to ignorance, lack of socialisation and training. This is what kills dogs and other pets, so how about you write an article calling for the goverment to put pet ownership to be taught at schools?
LikeReply23 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick Already wrote that one Lauren. It was in Our Dogs. I also go round schools here in Scotland doing talks to kids about dogs and pet ownership.
LikeReply123 hrs
Lauren Chilton At least thats something then. Maybe if we all put as much effort into that as people do to comment on this then we can make a massive difference to animal welfare.
LikeReply222 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick I've been writing to the Scottish government for years to get a workshop or program in place to teach kids about caring for pets. It's important that kids realise that when they ask for a dog, they're taking on a big responsibility and their parents need to know it too. 

Far too many people, especially this time of year buy a pup and don't realise the work they have to put in to train the pup and the responsibility they're taking on.
LikeReply222 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Leanne Benson Max WAS put to sleep for no good reason! He was handed over to the Blue Cross because his owners are elderly and have health issues such as cancer and angina and could no longer give him the full care he needed. They felt they were doing the best thing...See More
LikeReply3Yesterday at 9:04amEdited
Lauren Chilton Actually a pet's behaviour can change in minutes, hours, days or months as all pets are indviduals. Just like some humans can cope better in some situations than others. I just don't think we can judge when we didn't complete the assessment or training.
LikeReply123 hrs
Leanne Benson But Max's behaviour was only reported as being aggressive 3 weeks after being at BX. Two weeks before that his owner was getting good reports from them about how well he was doing, so common sense should have kicked in and made the staff aware that any change in behaviour was due to kennel stress. A problem that would have been sorted had he been allowed to go to the home that had been found for him and had another dog not been allowed to enter his space
LikeReply23 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Sheila Mclachlan Unfortunately Lauren the misguided actions by one centre has cast a blight over all Blue Cross work and brought into question its stated ethic of never putting a healthy dog down. The fact that the centre in question or more senior management have not...See More
Lauren Chilton The charity doesn't state that they never put a healthy dog down as they are a muliti species charity, i think you will find thats the dogs trust
LikeReply123 hrs
Sheila Mclachlan Lauren on their website it categorically states, 'we will never put a healthy animal down when it has an offer of a home'. So ....
LikeReply20 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Louis Dobson Joanne, our information comes from the owners and people within Blue Cross. We are not getting our info from the press, the press are getting their info from us.
Blue Cross Thanks for your support, Lauren.
Lauren Chilton You are welcome
LikeReply23 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Veronica Bates Since theres a lot of people who have professionally worked with dogs.. if anyone can help me with my own.. my dog suffers from autoimmune heamolytic anemia and is in desperate need for a transfusion.. pdsa wont do this and the only vetinary group the will will cost me 2,000. I need yo know any organisations or anything whatsoever would be willing to help. I have already set a fundme page in attempt for this but because shes a pet not everyone thinks on the same lines. 

More on the subjext of this topic.. o was quite alarned to come here and read what has been put from such an organisation.. but i havent read enough into it to understand what has exactly gone on.. RIP to Max and blue cross whether your choices were right or wrong people still need an explination as a funded organisation by the people they deserve an explination whatever the situation
LikeReply18 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

One question why?........if you remove it, then you are guilty....shame on you

Sue Haslett's photo.
Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...
Blue Cross Hi Sue, we have a full explanation about Max's case over on our website. Hope you'll have a look and let us know if you have any more questions. Many thanks. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/statement-about-max-0
Mandy Jones, Director of Rehoming at Blue Cross said: "We are sad to confirm that following further…
BLUECROSS.ORG.UK
Sue Haslett Sadly I feel there is more to this story, but we the public will never know the true story as there are 2 versions of events.
If you say this what happened then how come the story became so public? And who said that he had no behavioural problems.
I personally will not continue this debate....See More
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Yit May Foo Interesting that everything about this seems to have been taken down from the Blue Cross site. I wonder why? Do Blue Cross not want us to make up our own minds about this?

RIP Max - answers needed!

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Susan, thanks for getting in touch. Please do let us know which questions you would like answered or do give our Supporter Care team a call for a chat on 0300 790 9903.
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

Do you know what, none of us where there, none of us were involved. How many people here actually know anything about behaviour? How many are actually involved with rescue other than hiding behind a keyboard. Regardless of what you think due to th recent incident blue cross do an amazing job. Over 8000 animals were rehomed last year. Over 29000 were helped with veterinary treatment. With out the blue cross what would have happened to these? Who would have rehomed these dogs? Most other rescues are full and certainly don't have room for 8000 more dogs a year. Who would have paid the bills for nearly 30 thousand dogs! THOUSAND!!!!!' What happened with max is sad however it would not have been a desission made lightly and not made by on person. Regardless of what people think about the blue cross CEO taking money, or the charity not caring about animal welfare I ask you to look at the numbers and tell me who would have been there for those animals if not The blue cross.

I know your aware of this already but I take my hat off to you! The job you do is tough, hard work and grueling. You do it amazingly and continue to face up to the hardship you have gained. People need to be aware of th real world and Step into your shoes. 8000 animals saved bravo blue cross you save lives and are indisposable. You will always have my support and trust!

Jack Dillon's photo.
Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...
Blue Cross Thanks for your support, Jack. Best wishes.
Louis Dobson Er, I do courses on behaviour and have been involved with rescues, and run one. Several rescues offered Max a place, but Blue Cross are control freaks who were determined to kill him. 

Clear enough?
Lynda Bryant Suggest you read Carol Reynolds comment below... from the words of the dog's owners. They WERE involved. And yes, some of us are involved with rescue and knowledgable about behaviour. We just have some compassion and do more than tick boxes.
Donna Rigby Max didn't exhibit behavioural problems until he went into kennels. Rescues were offering to take him but Blue Cross took decision to euthanise anyway, he deserved a chance as he didn't have any issues before he went into their care. 
All the good work they've done is tarnished and people will no longer trust Blue Cross.
Hayley Balfe They were offered help from other charities but as usual refused the help. They think they know it all & would rather put a healthy dog to sleep than accept help. This is not the first & wont be the last but this case has been publicised. About time people knew the truth about large charities, they are a money making business. You are much better donating to a small charity that care. Yes they do some good work & publicise that but they don't tell you the bad bits. And this just shows how they lie to cover themselves. This dog reacted badly to kennels, if you ask any behaviourist they will tell you that this happens. The answer was to accept help from a foster home, not to KILL him!
Sheila Mclachlan Jack in many ways I agree with you but look at the story round Max and ask yourself was procedure really carried out? Why are their so many unanswered questions? Why such lack of clarity, openness and honesty by management either at Thirsk or higher up. When you get questions such as this that remain unanswered then those of us who are dog rescuers, lovers, supporters of rescue charities have a right to accountability. Max is the one we know about. How many do we not know about because they had no on to speak for them? All this because of poor management right they way through. I would suggest that those involved in Max's situation are withdrawn from working with the dogs and retrained.
Lorna Lo Sorry, just because they have done good deeds elsewhere does not excuse they f@@ked up big style with max. It makes you wonder how many other animals they have euthanised in this way that hasn't attracted the publicity max has. Think about it.
Janis Coeshall Didn't know there were so many experts who knew the full story! I am amazed at the knowledge being shown!!!
Dominique Taylor And how many have they unnecessarily PTS like Max?? They won't give u those figures will they!
y are nothing short of murderers, he deserved a chance to prove himself.
The Blue Cross are now getting a bad name and losing support because of the actions of those at the Blue Cross Thirsk who have played god, they knew that action was being organized to help Max, to get him assessed properly, yet they went ahead with this despicable act, FOR WHAT ? poor frightened Max, rip heart emoticon  
Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

You know what is so sad about your killing of Max today? It's all the other animals that will now die because people will stop supporting your charity. In killing Max you have sentenced so many other animals to death. Did you ever stop to think of the consequences of your action? Clearly not!

Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

Who the heck do you think you are killing Max after Heather had already informed you she had legal rep? I will not be donating to you now... frown emoticon

HiDeHo Share to: Facebook Twitter MSN linkedin google yahoo #2
  • Rank:Diamond Member
  • Score:2851
  • Posts:2851
  • From:USA
  • Register:26/01/2013 4:34 PM

Re:Blue Cross Main Page Comments

Date Posted:20/12/2015 7:16 PMCopy HTML


Well I notice there is no transparency here with regards to Max it's about time for some honesty here until that happens I like many others will continue to share his story and no longer support blue cross and encourage others not to support and to use and support other honest rescues

Comments
Rachel Hayball June- every rescue at some point has to put a dog to sleep....
LikeReply4 hrs
June Lesley Burns Rachel I fully appreciate that it is inevitable that some dogs have to be put sleep but in this case it would appear that the whole truth has not been told. Before anything is said yes there are 2 sides to every story in this case one side is telling theirs and the other keeps refusing to answer questions with regards to theirs so my stance remains the same
LikeReply34 hrs
Blue Cross Hi there June, please let us know which questions we can help you with. Many thanks.
LikeReply3 hrs
June Lesley Burns 1. why was an independent behaviour assement declined
2. Why are you denying knowledge of legal involvement 
3. Why was a copy of the contract of surrender not given to the previous owner
4. Why have statements by yourselves been changed (people have screen shotted the original ones)
5. Why when a suitable home with full rescue back up found did you continue with putting to sleep
6. Why did you go a head after 3 weeks 2 of which Max showed no problems

I do have many more questions as do lots of other people but am interested as to what your answers to these will be know doubt corporate ones
LikeReply13 hrs
Blue Cross Hi June, thanks for your questions. Hopefully these answers will help you. 
1. We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations.
As Max was signed over to us, we would be potentially liable if we released Max to anyone else to assess and he caused an injury.

2. There was no formal legal involvement. Throughout the past weeks we have remained directly in touch with his previous owners. We did not receive any contact from a Solicitor formally instructed by the previous owners until Friday, after Max had been euthanised. Following some informal questions by Wheldons earlier in the week, we invited a Solicitor to get in touch but did not hear anything until Friday, when a Partner asked for a verbal update on the case which we freely gave them.

3. We can certainly provide a copy if Mrs Dews would like it.

4. We have updated some of our statements over the past few days to clarify some points some people were unfortunately not understanding and to reflect the changes in Max's case, e.g. from being under assessment to saldy being euthanised.

5. As a responsible pet charity, Blue Cross has a duty of care not to rehome pets when they pose a significant danger to the public and their pets.

6. Max was admitted because his owners weren’t coping with his behaviour issues. We had various conversations with them before and during the handover to us, which made it clear that he had problems and we discussed these and, the possible outcomes for Max, openly with them from the start. Unfortunately despite our care, Max struggled with kennel life from the very start and found it difficult to bond with his carers at the centre. We did everything we could for Max, including keeping him in a quiet ‘home room area’ and training with experienced handlers, but his aggression towards both people and dogs worsened. We had to do what was best for his welfare.
LikeReply2 hrs
June Lesley Burns Thank you for your response my opinion has not changed I would hope a full and frank inquire will take place and all those that are shall we say manipulating the facts are taken to task. I will watch out for a transparent report being published but I doubt very much this will happen. I will be sharing this thread so as to stop you being bombard with these questions from other people and to also allow them to see for themselves your response and how it differs from the previous owners side of things. I for one believe the owners.
LikeReply42 hrsEdited
Jayne Dendle As I understand it the only issues that Max had upon admittance was a nervousness of other dogs. He was surrendered due to one of his elderly owners having cancer. Due to this and having to keep him to lead walks, they felt they were unable to meet his exercise needs. Please could you list the behaviour issues you believe he had. Unfortunately the owner was not given a copy of the contract as she was led to believe by Emma Parnell, that she was signing an informal discussion about Max's needs.
Would it not be standard procedure to provide an owner with a copy of what they had signed if it formed a contract?
LikeReply39 mins
June Lesley Burns Jayne Dendle as you can see from there answers they haven't answered the questions put to them it seems to me they are trying to wriggle out of things x
LikeReply129 mins
Jayne Dendle They are not going to admit they're wrong, they're too worried about all their lovely money going elsewhere. After all they need all the donations they can get to pay their CEO £80,000 a year!
LikeReply121 mins
June Lesley Burns Yes I agree Jayne Dendle xxx
LikeReply117 mins
Susan Harris This isn't explaining why an independent assessor wasn't allowed to see max or why they FOBBED off the owners legal team,thing just dont add up.
LikeReply6 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a reply...
Alice Hunter After THREE weeks ????
LikeReply1 hr
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...
Kevin Hepton to Blue Cross
8 hrs

Just heard about Max. Killed at your Thirsk Branch. Well done. No further support from me.

Comments
Rachel Hayball You Haven't heard the truth then...
LikeReply4 hrs
Blue Cross Hi Kevin, we're really sorry to hear that. Support like yours means we can continue to help thousands of pets every year:https://www.bluecross.org.uk/our-stories. We all wanted the best possible outcome for Max and welfare is our absolute priority. As animal lovers this is one of the hardest decisions for us to make, but our team went the extra mile for Max. If you do want to talk to anyone further please do call our Supporter Care team on 0300 790 9903 or let us know if you have any particular questions. Thanks.
LikeReply3 hrs
Sam End Bsl Jones How was it a hard decision? 
Maxs owner's had found him a secure place with an experienced owner in his breed to live and YOU refused to give him back why?
Why did you choose to end a dog's life when there was absolutely no need to?
You know and a few thousand ppl know that this poor boy was pts eairler than you've said and your trying to cover your tracks with your totally pathetic lies, the truth WILL come out because believe me maxs owner's will not let you get away with it!!!
LikeReply231 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...
Vikki Novelle shared a post to Blue Cross's Timeline.
8 hrs

Online photo dog show for Rescue dogs. Just 10p a class. E-mail your entries to k9vms@live.co.uk 😊

https://m.facebook.com/story.php…

Stop pet shops selling puppies and holding puppy 'stock'

Rescue dog photo show!

Only 10p per photo entered to cover costs! All I ask is that you sign the petition and pledge to share the campaign as far and wide as possible!

Prizes for first to third places per class, plus RBIS and BIS.

Closing date is 30th December at 7pm.

Categories (Rescue dogs only unless specified please):
1. Perfect puppy
2. Majestic male
3. Beautiful bitch
4. Precious pack (all rescues)
5. Rescue and best friends (rescue and non-rescue; any animal or human!)

Please email your photos and the class entered to k9vms@live.co.uk and I will upload them on here. Payment to be sent via PayPal (click on pay friends or family so you don't pay a fee) to k9vms@live.co.uk 😊

If you don't have Paypal I am happy to accept entries if you sign and share the campaign and donate a Christmas gift to your local animal rescue! So no excuses not to enter!!

Please spread the word and good luck x

Vikki x

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/109860

Deleye if not allowed. I have a very sick pet. Summer is a loyal amd loving family dog. She has a life threatening desease called autoimmune heamolytic anemea. Its killing her red blood cells. She only had 8%. She desperately needs a blood transfusion as shes maling too slow a progress. Basically its going to damage her orhans before she can maintain her bloods at the speed shes going. If you cant donate please please share my post.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post x

My loyal and lovely family pet dog Summer was diagnosed with Autoimmune Heamolytic Anemea. A life threatening desease. The lower the blood count…
WWW.GOFUNDME.COM

What happened to the dogs you apparently put down despite foster parents being found, dogs like Max ???

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Gisela, sadly there will be circumstances in which our teams come to the heartbreaking decision that euthanising a pet is the only responsible option, for example if they present a danger to people or other pets (like Max) or they are too ill/injure...See More
LikeReply3 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

Why is BX Thirsk deleting all the Max related posts and blocking any "Visitor Posts" from being made?? Guilty conscience perhaps?

Comments
Blue Cross Hi there Vicki, no guilty conscience. We did our very best for Max. In regards to removing posts, we want to hear your opinions on pets and animal welfare but our pages are a friendly space for people of all ages. We may remove posts containing profani...See More
LikeReply3 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

You need to give answers on your appauling decsion regarding Max - Why no independant assessment? Why not let the previous owner be there - Will no longer be supporting

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Gaynor, we're really sorry to lose your support. We help thousands of pets every year because of it! We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations.
And as Max was signed over to us, we would be potentially liable if we released Max to anyone else to assess and he caused an injury.
LikeReply3 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

After hearing of the appalling betrayal in Thirsk of an elderly couple who only sought the best for their dog, the killing of said dog and the litany of lies that accompanied this incident I regret to say that I find myself unable to any longer support the Blue Cross and will be cancelling my direct debit to you as soon as the banks open Monday morning.

Disgusted to hear that you had Max the German Shepherd/Mastiff cross who was at your Thirsk centre euthanised. I will be cancelling my direct debit with immediate effect.

Dear Blue Cross, I am very sorry to hear the outcome for poor Max. As a qualified canine behaviourist and trainer, with experience of both working with and owning a dog with significant behavioural issues, I realise the decision you made would have been far from easy and in some cases euthanasia is the best option for all. It's unrealistic to think all dogs can be safely rehabilitated, of homed and it only takes a lapse for tragedy to occur. Keep helping those you can help and keep making those decisions to spare suffering and pain to those you can't. An awful lot of dogs owe you their lives.

Comments
Rebecca Edgecombe Actually I'm not. By night I am a volunteer trainer in a small training club with a passion for helping people with their dogs. By day I am a Physicist.
LikeReply1323 hrs
Amy Carlin Fully agree with this post. Kennel stress can change a dogs behaviour in a matter of hours.
LikeReply822 hrs
Rosalie Stoate Mr Woodhouse, you don't know how wrong you are in your assumption.
LikeReply422 hrs
Louis Dobson There were other rescues quite happy to work with him. Putting him down way quite unnecessary and quite bizarrely mean.
LikeReply219 hrs
Rebecca Edgecombe I've seen first hand the horrific injuries caused by a dog handed into rescue with supposedly few issues. That was not in a kennel environment and was with extremely experienced and knowledgeable foster carers. Unfortunately a lot of people think 'love' can fix a dog. Nothing could be further from the truth. A rescue cannot pass a dog on they have concerns about, no matter who they are passing it to. It is not responsible, nor right for the dog and I support the charity in this case for a very unpopular thus very brave decision which was no doubt In the best interests of everyone. I'd urge anyone outraged by this to volunteer at your local training clubs to help owners at base level with issues before they become unmanageable. That's the only way to stop more 'Max' cases. Not blaming charities who try to pick up the pieces of whatever has caused the problem.
LikeReply919 hrs
Louis Dobson I run a dog rescue, and I'm quite heavily involved in dog training (although I'm not a trainer). This dog came in with no aggression issues, he had kennel stress. Which was why responsible rescues, just as capable of handling this sort of thing as Blue Cross (and Blue Cross Thirsk is a shonky little place with 25 dogs, it's not the Microsoft of the canine world by any means), were quite prepared to handle the dog themselves. 

But Blue Cross were determined to have it their way and would cooperate with no one. 

They also hid from the solicitors and bamboozled the elderly owner into signing a contract quite other than the one she thought she was signing. 

Yes there are occasions when you have to put a dog down. This wasn't one of them. And BX's desperate attempts to spin it as such are deeply disturbing, and doomed to failure.
LikeReply618 hrs
Michael French Rebecca Edgecombe - i know your a blue cross worker for a fact! a physicist is not stupid enough to put such a stupid status publicly and not checking out the facts... other rescues were willing to take max to work with him so he had a second chance... not only that there wasmore then one... he had a second chance to be worked with but blue cross refused... they could of signed all rights over so he could of had a second chance, but they PTS because they got caught out from the general public... ive been constantly lied to by blue cross head office and blue cross thirsk? dont even get me started... this isnt the first case against blue cross about them PTS dogs for virtually no reason and them saying "dogs behaviour changed", they had many options to give the dog a second chance to be worked with elsewhere but refused... blue cross should of accepted the outside help... there behavioural experts dont exist or lack in qualifications/knowledge, blue cross needs to step up and be honest with the public, communication and HONESTY is key... we will respect and understand honesty... lying will always be found out and frowned upon! please feel free to message me about the conversations ive had with blue cross about there recent antics, theyve lost me helping them out in the future if there simply going to PTS and not accept help... the problem here now is... were not getting answers and AGAIN.... ONLY THE DOGS WILL SUFFER BECAUSE US HUMANS ARE DISHONEST SELFISH HUMAN BEINGS THAT BICKER & ARGUE! - be honest about max and get the publics support back blue cross like i originally told you too or else this WILL spiral out of control as youve seen so far your telephones have had a bashing, your reviews in thirsk branch have gone down, comments and posts have been blocked on yourthirsk page because you cant handle the traffic of it! your losing donations left right and centre, one person pulled back £500! thats a large donation... because of your lies and dishonesty and lack of communication not only is max and his family suffering but the rest of the dogs needing help will suffer now, i personally warned you over the phones and online numerous times this would happen but you refused to listen... well here we are, congratulations
LikeReply113 hrs
Rebecca Edgecombe Actually I lied. I'm an analytical chemist (specialising in environmental pollution) by qualification but I fell into physics 11 years ago. Click my profile and see I spent time in the summer in Ukraine and Chernobyl more specifically. I'd love to work for the Blue Cross but sadly live nowhere near one.
LikeReply29 hrs
Dominique Taylor There were offers from other rescues that would have helped Max! The Blue Cross decided to play god and have now put a lot of other dogs at major risk due to people no longer supporting them!!
LikeReply6 hrs
Lorna Fisher So you are a ‘Physicist’ who ‘fell into Physics 11 years ago’ - interesting. In what field do you specialise and what was the title of your PhD? I ask out of interest as I could not find any trace of you or any of your publications on the IoP, APS, IEEE, IET or even The Russian Academy of Science (PAH) databases. I included the Russian Academy search as you referenced your visit to Chernobyl in your recent comment, implying that you were there on a work basis? Unless I’ve picked up wrong of course? I myself have visited Chernobyl several times now, although not on a work basis due to the strict security clearance requirements. I was simply there on a tourist visa and residing in Kiev, not too far from майдан незалежності (Independence Square - just like in your picture).
You’ll notice my use of quotation marks in relation to ‘Physicist’- I’ll assume this was a typing error on your part as the term ‘Physicist’ is not actually recognised in it’s own right, it’s merely an indication of a sub-genre to which your job best fits, i.e. Medical Physicist, Thermal Physicist, Quantum Physicist, Nuclear Physicist. I know many professionals in the field of Physics and not one of them, myself included, would ever refer to themselves as a Physicist. It’s not only embarrassing but insulting to the profession as a whole, but although I’m sure you know that already. 
Finally, I’m struggling to understand why you felt the need to even mention ‘Physicist’ or Analytical Chemist in your reply as it does nothing to substantiate your previous comments in a post that emanated from the actions of the Blue Cross and their behaviour towards Max and his family. In my experience people only use these flash titles to intimidate people, hoping for the “Oh she must be very intelligent so I won’t question her” response, which is quite sad really and says a lot about a person.
LikeReply4 hrs
Vanessa Waddon Erm, I think you will find Rebecca wasn't trying to be smart or intimidate, rather prove she doesn't work for the Blue Cross in response to an earlier comment. I am honestly dumbfounded that someone has so much time on their hands to research a complete stranger who happened to express an opinion on a Facebook page.
LikeReply54 hrs
Lorna Fisher Vanessa, I'm sure Rebecca can speak for herself, however I'll reply as you as you've taken the time to write. That 'research' as you so put it took less than 30 seconds, I typed her name into a database. It actually took longer to type the comment. Please don't judge me by your standards.
LikeReply4 hrs
Rebecca Edgecombe I would have said that the fact I can express myself with correct spelling and grammar would be enough to intimidate a lot of people on Facebook if I'm honest. Thankfully for me (and my mortgage) my employer pays me as a physicist and not a dog trainer. They're a member of the IoP by the way. And the IET. No need for personal registration of those bodies. I must look into the Russian Academy of Science. That would be epic.
LikeReply21 hr
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...
counts so I can't comment on that. But the posts I've seen on here over the last 24 hours is quite frankly utter madness. While I know feelings are running high regarding Max but to call the staff all things under the sun is appalling. The staff working in Blue Cross do not dislike animals if they did they wouldn't work there. They want the best for the animals but sometimes the animals for whatever reason are not suitable for rehoming due to issues they have. Also dog attacks have increased over the last years which I imagine has a knock effect with rescue centres and they have to be more careful with which dogs they rehome now maybe than 5 or 10 years ago.
Comments
Jo Roach I have been polite in all my comments to Blue Cross. Blue Cross are a charity who accept public donations so the public have a right to ask questions and receive detailed answers, people want to know what a charity does with money that they have donated.
LikeReply223 hrs
Cherry Beresfield Max did not have 'issues' and many of the people commenting DO know the owners. It would appear the truth has not been told about this case.
LikeReply222 hrs
Louis Dobson Quite. It would be interesting to know at what point the BS started. Do Blue Cross themselves know the full truth about what happened up in Thirsk?
LikeReply18 hrs
Michael French i havent seen any conflicting stories? ive seen one story from heathers family thats smooth straight and honest... then i get blue cross's 20+ stories of lies and bollocks
LikeReply113 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

R.I.P SWEET DARLING
ITS SO VERY SAD:-(
Will the owners be allowed his body so they can at least bury him?
It won't bring him back but may give them some kind of comfort to know they themselves laid him to rest 
Xxxxxxxxx

Anthea Erran Oxley's photo.
Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...
Dominique Taylor They won't give them his body or ashes!
LikeReply6 hrs

I am really struggling to understand why you put Max to sleep when other rescues were offering to take him?

You would help yourselves by just admitting you made a mistake. Human error happens all the time & that is what it was. You did not do the right thing. You had other options that would have helped this dog, instead you chose to give up & not try & help. You would gain a lot more respect by telling the truth instead of making up these lies.

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Hayley, thanks for your message about Max. All of us here wanted a different outcome for poor Max but his aggressive behaviour towards both people and dogs had become so severe it made him a danger to others and unsafe to rehome. As animal lovers, this is one of the hardest decisions for us to make but our team went the extra mile for Max and have the extensive expertise needed to make sure that this decision is the right one.
LikeReply22 hrs
Hayley Balfe He came to you with no aggression issues. So what did you do to cause him to become so aggressive? I think you need to change your behaviourist, if a dog comes in fine & then turns aggressive. You had other options & you know it. More lies & excuses! You are just making people angry! You do not know it all, everybody makes mistakes. It just takes a better person to admit it. I pray for the other dogs in your care, poor innocent pets being cared for by murderers!
LikeReply221 hrs
Tina Jones How did you go the extra mile exactly? For 2 weeks his behaviour was brilliant, then you made a mistake and allowed another dog to get too close to Max. Your extra mile for Max lasted less than a week. You didn't give that poor puppy a chance.
LikeReply519 hrs
Louis Dobson It may have started as a mistake, but for some reason BX just would not row back from the edge. They're completely committed now, sadly. 

And I still wonder if Blue Cross actually knew exactly what Blue Cross Thirsk were up to.
LikeReply17 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

This is my post from 20 hours ago - I am still awaiting a reply to my questions.

Jo RoachBlue Cross

20 hrs ·

Blue Cross, maybe the question that needs to be asked is why Max's behaviour changed so dramatically within your care, to the point that after just 3 weeks, he was deemed so aggressive that he had to be put to sleep? Surely a full initial assessment was carried out? At this point his behaviour cannot have been deemed aggressive, so what happened to him in the short time he was at Blue Cross to make him aggressive? I would like a reply to my questions please from Blue Cross.

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Jo, apologies we missed your previous post. There was no sudden deterioration. Max was admitted because his owners weren’t coping with his behaviour issues. We had various conversations with them before and during the handover to us, which made it clear that he had problems and we discussed these and, the possible outcomes for Max, openly with them from the start. Unfortunately despite our care, Max struggled with kennel life from the very start. We did everything we could for Max, including keeping him in a quiet ‘home room area’ and training with experienced handlers, but his aggression towards both people and dogs worsened. Several assessments were carried out on Max from our Thirsk team and our expert behavioural team. 

It is a team decision to put a pet to sleep and is only made after we have considered all the options and know their behavioural problems could not be resolved either at a centre, in a new home or with their previous owners. We had a legal responsibility as well as a moral duty of care in relation to his welfare and the risk he posed to people and other dogs. Hope that helps explain things a bit further. Thanks again for your comments.
Jo Roach This conflicts with information provided by his owners.
Jo Roach How do you measure risk level please and what was his risk level at the time of entering Blue Cross and his level at the time he was put to sleep?
Jo Roach According to his owners, Blue Cross reported that Max was doing well for the first two weeks, please can you explain this discrepancy, are you saying now that he wasn't doing well?
Jo Roach Did Blue Cross deem Max aggressive towards people on entering Blue Cross?
LikeReply23 hrs
Jo Roach What exactly are the behaviours that a dog displays which Blue Cross consider aggression towards humans?
LikeReply123 hrs
Shirley Silvers I believe that BLUE CROSS ARE TELLING LIES.......YOU HAD MAX IN ISOLATION........YOU ONLY HAD HIM FOR THREE WEEKS.....WHY DID YOU NOT ALLOW AN INDEPENDENT BEHAVIOUR ASSESSMENT TO BE CONDUCTED.
LikeReply23 hrs
Jo Roach I do understand that some dogs require euthanasia due to aggression, I want to know what behaviours Max demonstrated that resulted in his death and what measures were taken to address these issues prior to death?
LikeReply23 hrs
Helen Greenwood I have to wonder how many of u slagging off the blue cross have worked in rescue, animals behaviour can change rapidly in that environment, owners lie about their animal, animal haters dont tend to work in rescue and pts is never an easy decision, get a grip and find a worthy cause to bang your drums about and set up petitions about, like puppy farms, cruel farming practices, illegal hunting etc etc etc, the list is endless
LikeReply221 hrs
Jo Roach There is nothing wrong in asking questions about events which resulted in Max being put to sleep. I do not expect that people working in rescue would be animal haters, but equally so, you wouldn't expect a serial killer to be a GP, yet there has been one. A charity that is funded by public donations is open to public scrutiny and if supporters are asking questions, they need to be answered. I haven't "slagged" Blue Cross off, I have been polite and not abusive.
LikeReply220 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick Why do you keep stating he was handed over because of behavioural issues when this is a blatant lie?

He was handed over because his owners are in deteriorating health and wanted him to go to a younger family so he would have a better quality of life.

I find it shocking that you continue to lie in your statements about this dog.
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick You were also told not to put him in an enclosed area with another dog which you ignored.
Emily Stevens I am curious as to why they were told not to put him in an enclosed area with another dog?
LikeReply123 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick Max was attacked by 3 greyhounds in March of this year. He had not shown any outward aggression towards dogs but it took him a little longer to feel comfortable around a dog he'd never met before. The intro had to be done gradually rather than just suddenly bringing a new dog in.
LikeReply123 hrs
Emily Stevens Oh I see. That must have been frightening. I must confess I am still a bit confused though. If Max showed no aggression to other dogs then why the need to go slowly when meeting new dogs? If he wasn't going to do anything bad then why exercise caution? What happened to the Greyhounds who attacked him do you know?
LikeReply22 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick He didn't show aggression but he was wary. A gradual introduction meant he could get a scent of the dog at a distance. Like if they were in a field and his owner walked one hundred or so feet behind the new dog so he could get a sniff and realise that the other dog wasn't going to attack. 

Max had no injuries in the greyhound attack and I believe that nothing happened to the greyhounds.
LikeReply122 hrs
Diane Moore Emily, no one can predict the reaction of a frightened dog - hence the need for caution. It's just common sense which clearly was lacking in the BC staff
LikeReply19 hrs
Emily Stevens I only ask because it has been stated that he had no behaviour problems and yet he couldn't be in the same space as another dog? It doesn't quite make sense. You are quite right, nobody can 100% predict the reactions of a frightened dog although an educated guess will tell you that you would probably see a fight or flight response depending on the circumstances and options available to the dog.
LikeReply18 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Hayley Balfe You are not helping yourselves by lying! You obviously didn't do everything in your power! If he didn't like kennels you should have accepted help from a foster carer. You killed an innocent dog! When are you just going to admit you were wrong!
Vera Dunkin Blue Cross I will point out you also have a legal responsibility for 'transparency'.
Vera Dunkin I will also add you are running a television advert at present look at the wording I'm sure advertising standards will be!
Janis Coeshall Why are people so rude? You do have an answer which you refuse to accept there is no point in abusing people. You can believe what you like but please be civil!
LikeReply23 hrs
Jo Roach I have not been rude or abusive towards Blue Cross, I am merely asking questions which have not been answered at all or the answer given has been inadequate.
LikeReply122 hrs
Jo Roach The consequence of Blue Cross not answering questions will be that some people will cease to support and to donate to them. It is in the charity's interests to be transparent. Incidents like this result in bad publicity and lead to a lack of trust.
LikeReply322 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

Freddie would like to wish everyone at The Blue Cross a very Happy Christmas. Thank you for finding me a home 3 & a half years ago. I am 18 & a half now and doing pretty well. XXX

Elayne Cross's photo.

I am utterly disgusted with your recent actions regarding Max...the dog that you euthanized recently and as a result am withdrawing my support to your organisation. An interpreter interprets as he see's fit and your decision to KILL was based on YOUR interpretation. An independent assessment should have been carried out and if someone wants their dog back...how dare you not allow that!!
How dare you take such a decision. Did you even allow him to 'pass' with those he loved???? You are utterly reprehensible and the staff that made this decision have done you more damage than you might think!

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Denise, we're very sorry to hear you're upset about Max. Thanks to support like yours we can help thousands of pets every year. We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations. We would be potentially liable if we released Max to anyone else to assess and he caused an injury. All of us here wanted a different outcome for poor Max.
Denise McGillis While I appreciate your response, I'm sorry but your reply isn't legally correct is it....all you had to do was return Max to his owner and your absolved of responsibility, unless of course you're concerned that it was your kennels that created his behaviour? If another behaviourist had agreed to examine Max and signed a disclaimer again, where's your liability. You may have faith in your team and that's to be applauded but blind faith is a dangerous this...experts can and do get things wrong. If you don't believe or accept this, you need to rethink your beliefs. As an example, a group of so called experts argued that the dog's taken from Michael Vick were agressive and couldn't be rehomed/rehabilitated....look how that went!!!! YOU didn't want a different outcome...If you did, you'd have allowed other options and worst of all...allowed him to go in love not in the arms of a stranger. THAT is cruel and unforgivable.
Denise McGillis I'd also like to add....While your talking about the legal imperative. Where's the moral one????
Lorna Lo Well said Denise.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Mellen Jones This isn't really answering this lady's questions??
Andrea Last They're only replying to posts from people saying donations are stopping! That's done it for me too I won't be giving them any more money
LikeReply17 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Veronica Baker That is ducking the question, why was his care plan not followed, your experienced people knew he was frightened of being in an enclosed area with dogs, having previously being attacked, why did you ignore legal representation, and why are you saying he was handed in because of behavioural problems, when it was due to his owners ill health. Never ever will I support you again
Anne Gater I personally think the dog was obviously stressed and frightened. To pts should not have been an option if the owners wanted him back. I too am disgusted and very saddened. My 12 year old cocker would, I'm sure, react in the same way if she was taken away from me.
Anthea Erran Oxley I can not think what must have been worse for this baby, firstly taken away from the only home he knew,from the people he loved then to be in a strange environment with lots of loud sounds then to be taken on a journey to his death! See it through the dogs eyes! Can you even begin to imagine what he went through before he was cruelly taken away from the world:-( it breaks my heart in to pieces!!!
Joanna Gillett Denise I'm with you 100%. Shameful erroneous behaviour on their part only worsened by their puerile blind faith in their own team.
LikeReply223 hrs
Joanna Gillett I should also add that Denise is correct in her accurate assessment of damage caused by staff. Writing this from Florida USA.
LikeReply20 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

I think, as an organisation funded by public money, the Blue Cross should be answering question from the public, regarding Max. Directing comments to a link, which contains information strongly disputed by the dog's owners and family, is not good enough. There are salient points which need to be addressed. To ignore questions, or to lie about the circumstances, will result in loss of faith and funds for the BC. Someone needs to take responsibility for the tragic events surroundin this case.

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Lynda, many thanks for getting in touch. Please do let us know which questions you would like us to answer and we'll do our very best. We're here to help smile emoticon
Lynda Bryant Why did the dog only become aggressive after you had had him three weeks?
Blue Cross There was no sudden deterioration. Max was admitted because his owners weren’t coping with his behaviour issues. We had various conversations with them before and during the handover to us, which made it clear that he had problems and we discussed thes...See More
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Why do you deny the owner had legal representation?
Blue Cross Throughout the past weeks we have remained directly in touch with his previous owners. We did not receive any contact from a Solicitor formally instructed by the previous owners until Friday, after Max had been euthanised. They have asked for a verbal update on the case which we freely gave them.
LikeReply21 hrs
Sam End Bsl Jones We know your hiding the fact max was pts before you said he was!!! Liars! !
LikeReply5 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a reply...
Lynda Bryant Why did you refuse to allow them to be with the dog as he died?
Blue Cross Once a decision has been made to euthanise a pet, our team consider the individual pets needs. At this time the priority is the welfare of the pet and ensuring the euthanasia is peaceful and stress free. We considered whether it would be beneficial to Max for his previous owners to be present, but agreed that this would be likely to be extremely distressing for everyone. Whilst we understand the former owners may have wanted to be there, we had to do what we felt was best for Max.
LikeReply21 hrs
Sam End Bsl Jones Because he was pts before they said he was its obvious now they are trying to cover their tracks!
LikeReply5 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynda Bryant Why did you not consider the offer of behavioural training?
Blue Cross We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Why did you not allow him to go to another rescue, which was offered?
Blue Cross We do not believe a pet can live a happy, healthy life confined permanently to kennels. Max was not happy in kennels or being around other dogs, so a sanctuary where he’d need to be confined for life would have been a terrible life for him.
LikeReply21 hrs
Sam End Bsl Jones He was for 2 weeks liars!
LikeReply4 mins
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynda Bryant Why did you not return him to the owner?
Char Mullarkey They are legally singed over through transfer of ownership to bx
LikeReply23 hrs
Blue Cross As a responsible, leading pet charity, Blue Cross cannot rehome pets when they pose a significant danger to the public and other animals – this includes giving them back to previous owners or people they may nominate. We did discuss this with his previous owners when they brought him in to us, and we believed they understood our position.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a reply...
Lynda Bryant Why did you not consider the home found for him, by the owner?
Blue Cross As a responsible pet charity, Blue Cross has a duty of care not to rehome pets when they pose a significant danger to the public and their pets.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Whynwas no independent assessment allowed?
Blue Cross We absolutely trust our own team who are leaders in their field and have many years’ experience of assessing dogs both in our centres and working for other welfare and assistance dog organisations.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Why do you claim he was surrendered for behavioural issues, when he was simply too boisterous for elderly owners? They did not want him rehomed for aggressive problems, he had never been aggressive?
Blue Cross Max’s owners were not coping with his strength and problem behaviour. We had various conversations with them before and during the handover to us which made it clear that he had these problems.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Why does your ad imply dogs will survive, BTW? This is misleading to potential donors. Three weeks is an inadequate time span for the rehab of a very young dog...had this actually been necessary.
Blue Cross Sadly there will be circumstances in which our teams come to the heartbreaking decision that euthanising a pet is the only responsible option, for example if they present a danger to people or other pets.
LikeReply21 hrs
Lynda Bryant Having read comments from the owner's family and friends, I believe answers are required for all the above, and possibly more...
Vicki Morton Can you, Blue Cross,
provide absolute proof of exactly when (Date & Time)!Max was killed (I hesitate to use the word euthanise as it has a whole different meaning)
LikeReply120 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

I have seen the new Blue Cross advert twice today & I am incensed, saddened & sickened by the thought that ANYONE who abandons their pet dog in this way should be prosecuted!!! So, I would like to add to the advert... A DOG IS FOR LIFE NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS!!! PLEASE THINK REALLY CAREFULLY BEFORE BUYING THAT CUTE PUPPY, AS YOUR ACTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES!

I would like to know why you are deleting posts on your pages questioning your euthanasia of Max.
I would also like to know why there are so many lies in your statement relating to the circumstances surrounding his time with you and his death.
Finally I would like to know, when there were other options available which would have absolved you from responsibility, you killed a young, fit, previously happy and well-loved dog?

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Jan, many thanks for your comment. As we state in the description of our page, we want to hear your opinions on pets and animal welfare but please remember this is a friendly space for people of all ages. We may remove posts containing profanities, threats, bullying, discrimination, offensive or explicit comments and graphic photographs and videos. Spam, duplicate posts and pets being advertised for sale may also be deleted or hidden too. 

If there are particular questions you have about our statement then please do let us know and we'll do our best to help. We all wanted the best possible outcome for poor Max but as a responsible pet charity we simply cannot put people or other pets at risk.
Jan Smith I have asked 3 specific questions, none of which you have answered.
LikeReply22 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Wendy Moran-brown I have read through all the previous posts concerning the wrongfull euthanasia of max and NOT ONCE have you answered any of the questions, you have basically used more or less the the same answer, you didn't give that poor puppy, YES PUPPY, he wouldn't have been an adult untill about 3 years of age, a chance at all, my 11 1/2 stone Rotty had fear aggression with people and dogs, I had a behaviourist in and tried other methods as well, although still unsure of some dogs she's now a lot better, I'm not trained but I took advice and put lots of work into helping her, where was the help for max, 3 weeks...... It can take months.... Shame on blue cross!!!
LikeReply116 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

Large charities like Blue cross do this all the time. They think they know best & will never accept help when they need it. They are all about the money & don't care about the animals. We are better off donating to the small charities that need the money & that don't work like a business. I hope this brings you down a peg or two Blue Cross! Now that one case has been publicised but I'm sure there have been many more like this. RIP sweet boy 💙

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Hayley, we're really sad to hear this. We help thousands of pets every year thanks to the lovely support from our donors and friends here and you'll see so many fantastic cases of this on our website and Facebook pages. We all wanted the best possible outcome for Max and as animal lovers this is one of the hardest decisions for us to make.
Hayley Balfe Well not really, the best answer was an easy decision to make. You were offered help & you turned it down. It's about time you owned up to murdering this dog!
Diane Moore They're just giving a stock statement to every question and not actually giving a specific answer
LikeReply19 hrsEdited
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

Re: Blue Cross, Thirsk - The killing of Max

I am so disgusted with the actions of the Blue Cross in relation to this issue, particularly to their cavalier attitude in defending their actions. After being a regular monthly supporter of the Blue Cross for many, many years I have reluctantly, and with a heavy heart, today cancelled my mandate in their favour with my bank and they will no longer receive my support. Instead of trying to defend their actions by quoting extracts from their policy document they need to explain, in detail, line by line, the course of events and their reactions to those events that eventually gave them no alternative than to take the action they did. They must realise the depth of feeling in this matter and that it will not just go away.

Comments
Blue Cross Hi there Maurice, we've responded to your private message if you would like to take a look. Many thanks for your messages.
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...

I have no words! I'm shocked by the death of a healthy dog especially when many life lines were offered but I now also worry for all the other animals in your care as many will no longer support you but those animals still need care food and vet treatment. I am also worried as due to being so quick to put poor max to sleep how many more has this happened to and how many more WILL it happen to. People have entrusted you with there pets, in hope they will start a new life in a forever loving home. Poor baby max will never have that now:-(

I think it is a shame that everyone is so judgemental. This charity does outstanding work nationally. There are plenty of pets that rely on the clinical services, free microchipping has has been provided and thousands of pets have been rehomed which without this charity may have had a very different outcome. Team members work their hardest and often over stretch themselves to benefit the pets because they do care, they do give their absolute best and ultimatley they are pet lovers themselves. They would never ethuanise a pet without exhausting every possible avenue and at the same time they have to be responsible about the avenues they take to protect other pets and the public.

Comments
Anthea Erran Oxley I can not understand why anyone would defend those who murder a dog for no reason!
Louis Dobson Taking the fever out of it, of course sometimes shelters have to euthanase dogs. 

However Max was not remotely aggressive before Blue Cross got hold of him, and would undoubtedly have been fine if they simply sent him home. 

If they weren't prepared to take that risk though, they were offered a breed expert owner with rescue backup. 

And if they were too anal to take that tiny risk, then they were offered totally safe spaces at other rescues. 

But Blue Cross weren't prepared to involve anyone else, and executed a frail cancer patient's beloved pet. 

They're not fit for purpose, should get out of the shelter exercise and stick to providing medical services. 

There are plenty of other charities to support.
Lauren Chilton Ok so although the media and owners said he wasn't agressive he still may have been demonstrating anti social behaviours which can escalate. At the end of the day most pet owners seriously misunderstand their dogs behaviour.
LikeReply123 hrs
Louis Dobson Blue Cross also assessed him as not aggressive. If aggression appeared, it did so under their care, as a result of their actions. 

They were offered a variety of solutions, including passing him to other rescues. 

But they were determined to put him down. 

Why? Ego? Arrogance? Reluctance to admit error? Who knows? Some people who know the centre well are convinced he was already dead.
LikeReply223 hrs
Lauren Chilton All this hearsay does not help anyone though does it and if you do work in rescue then you would never use the terms ego or arrogance to explain any animal welfare charity staff as the wouldn't work in that industry if they did there is too much self sacrifce and hard work to be done for that and they care otherwise they would not work for a charity
LikeReply222 hrs
Louis Dobson I beg to differ. I deal with people driven by ego every day, and the most useful maxim is "There is no limit to what you can achieve if you don't care who gets the credit."

I don't think it's hearsay, most of the facts are firmly established. There are odd gaps though, like how Max became "aggressive" and why on Earth they wouldn't pass him on to another rescue, and we'd all like them filled in.

However it looks like BX would rather be beaten with the Internet Stick than tell us what happened, which makes us all suspect it reflects very badly on them.
LikeReply122 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lorna Lo Except they didn't pursue every possible avenue. Did you even bother to read the owners side? The owners actually found a foster home with rescue backup to take max but blue cross,refused and instead killed him. The owners asked for an independent assessment, blue cross refused. The owners asked for an independent behaviorist to work with max, blue cross refused.You have to ask yourself that why did a dog turn so,dangerously aggressive ( in their opinion as they refused to let him be independently assessed ) in three weeks in their care when there was no history of behavioural issues?
LikeReply3Yesterday at 6:12amEdited
Lauren Chilton Yes i did read the owners side thankyou but once a pet is signed to a charity they have a legal obligation and duty of care. If Max had bitten someone at the next rescue, another dog or the public then they would have been liable and as a responsible charity they didn't do that
LikeReply23 hrs
Lorna Lo Actually when you sign the dog over to another rescue, they are no longer liable. Same principle applies as to an owner. Another rescue was also willing to take him on, so why did they refuse to sign him over? You obviously didn't read that bit. You obviously also missed the bit where it was said max has no history of aggression let alone biting someone lol. The issue is the conflicting reports that blue cross have issued with regards . To his behaviour and the owners statement. Blue cross admitted the first week he was fine, it was only over the next two weeks later that he suddenly turned into a dangerously agressive dog. If he had been truly agressive they wouldn't have taken him on in the first place and he certainly wouldn't have been 'fine' during the first week with him, You can bet had this been my dog I would have demanded independant assessing too! If they had nothing to hide and were right in their assessment then they wouldn't have refused.
LikeReply21 hrsEdited
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Hayley Balfe I have no words personally. But Just to let you know.....This is not the first time & won't be the last a big know it all charity makes this mistake. The only difference here is that this case has been made publicised. This happens all the time in this size charity. They would rather PTS a healthy animal than accept help. It's run like a business not a charity.
LikeReply2Yesterday at 6:19amEdited
Lauren Chilton Where is your evidence?
LikeReply23 hrs
Hayley Balfe I have worked for a big children's charity & know a few people who work for big animal charities. They waste money as they want to keep the budget the same every year. Look at their Accounts, they have the same assets every year. Where's your evidence? Money making!
LikeReply21 hrsEdited
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Joanne Park I cannot believe some of the shocking vitriol being published here about Blue Cross and Max. Many of you are declining to understand the meaning of the word 'healthy'. Do you think a charity should only ever consider physical health when assessing an animal's welfare? The mental/ behavioural health of an animal is equally important and goes straight to the heart of quality of life.
A young dog was PTS, this is of course terribly sad and distressing. Was he PTS for no good reason? Because the centre had no space? NO. 
The original owners of this dog made a choice to sign his care over to a charity - they signed a legal document to do so. 
Lauren is completely correct in her comment that the charity would never have euthanised Max without a thorough behavioural and welfare assessment. They are not 'murdering scum' which is about the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. I know of smaller, local charities who euthanised whole litters of puppies and kittens because of space constraints and the belief that it was kinder than trying to find homes for them. Indiscriminate euthanasia.
I know of a charity that has a number of aggressive, seriously mentally damaged dogs in kennels that have been there over 3yrs and will never be rehomed. 
Tell me which is worse?
You are all screaming and shouting when you only have half a story, a cleverly edited story the press knew would cause such a response. 
Instead on jumping on this media stoked circus try applying some energy to actually supporting animal welfare, which ever organisation you choose, get up in arms over the lack of neutering that leads to hundreds of animals in shelters throughout the UK - thus leading to charities being forced to turn away many more animals through lack of space and resource - which leads to animals suffering and dying.
Scream about that.
Scream for the animals that still need help.
Then again the media wouldn't be remotely interested in that as it wouldn't stir up this kind of shocking name calling and abuse.
Lorna Lo Read the owners side and their daughters statements in their fundraiser before you comment and pass judgement joanne park. 

A healthy dog with NO AGGRESSION history was put to sleep after just three weeks in this charities care as he became in their...See More
LikeReply3Yesterday at 8:49amEdited
Joanne Park Lorna have you seen a copy of the Blue Cross admission form? Have you seen what was written down by the owner as the reason for admission? 
I would imagine Blue Cross refused an independent behavioural assessment because they have a superb team of qual...See More
Lauren Chilton Thankyou Joanne Park for understanding.
LikeReply323 hrs
Lorna Lo If they had nothing to hide they would have gone for the independant assessment, just to prove they were right in their assessment of max. So why didn't they? 

. If you don't agree with your doctor, you're entitled to a second opinion aren't you? Doctors don't always get their diagnosis right and neither do charities like blue cross.
LikeReply21 hrs
Hayley Balfe Wow! And where is your evidence??? The owners have been very honest, along with other charities that have spoken out to say they offered help but were ignored. Blue cross have said nothing or shown nothing to prove their innocence! Why because they can't!
LikeReply21 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick I've written a full account of what happened after speaking to Max's owners. I can assure you that my work has not been cleverly edited in any way, shape or form.
Cheryl Nelson Not much of a journalist when you only get one side of the story though
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick BX are declining comment. So yes I did try.
Joanne Park And yet you chose to write an article guaranteed to cause this sort of response with only one side of what is undoubtedly a considerably more complex story than has been told to you, and ultimately published.
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick I spoke to a lot of people before putting this together. I also have sixteen years experience working with dogs. 

It's not difficult to see that more could have been done for Max and you just have to see the state his owners are in to know how distraught they are that they trusted Max to be cared for and rehomed, yet this was the outcome? 

Max deserved more and even though the offers were there, the Blue Cross denied them. What makes me even more sick is that they denied his sick owner to be with him when he died. There was absolutely no need for that.
Cheryl Nelson I've worked with dogs for over 20 years but it doesn't qualify me to pass judgement on this case. I wasn't present when Max was assessed and neither was anyone commenting on here, so no one has the full facts no matter what they claim. But why let the truth get in the way of a good story, eh?
Lauren Chilton I agree we all have experience but we weren't there so its pretty unfair to slander a charitable organisation that just try to help pets that owners can no longer keep or manage. Where would they be?
LikeReply23 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick His owners were and I have spoken to them. And the fact Blue Cross refused to let an independent assessor come to the centre and assess him. 

Blue Cross have shot themselves in foot with their statement about Max being handed over due to behavioural issues. It was due to his owner being ill.

My history as a journalist for Our Dogs is proof enough that I always go for the truth. I took this on because his family deserve answers.
LikeReply123 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick Lauren Chilton that's the tragic thing about this case. Max's owners trusted the Blue Cross to find him a good home. His owners even found someone to take him who had years of experience with large breeds and with full support of a rescue. At least two other rescues offered him a place where he would not be in a kennel and would have been placed in a foster home with someone who could handle large breeds. Those offers were denied. This dog was put to sleep despite numerous offers and pleading for his life.
LikeReply123 hrs
Lauren Chilton I am not judging anyone and reserving an open mind
LikeReply22 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick And I am only interested in the truth. As someone who has worked wth dogs for sixteen years I am more than positive Max could have been saved. Knowledgeable and breed specific rescues offered him a place and were refused. This dog did not deserve to die.
Joanne Park NO animal does. What is deserved can not always come into it. This is what being a responsible animal welfare organisation has to consider - and being a loving pet owner for that matter.
Do you realise that by inciting the kind of vile abuse that the charity is now receiving, by likely reducing the amount of support the charity receives and by people calling for the "murdering scum" to be shut down - you run the very real risk of countless animals dying. Animals that may not get help. 
There is a bigger picture here
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick I don't agree with the abuse, profanity or name calling. I put Max's story out there because it needed to be heard. What I do agree with are people asking to know the truth when blatant lies are being told.

The Charity have brought this on themselves in their lack of care and refusal to let an independent assessor come onto their premises to assess Max and despite other, more qualified rescues offering him a place and taking full responsibility for him, he was taken to a vet and put to sleep. This should never have happened.
Lauren Chilton No pet deserves to die but thousands do due to ignorance, lack of socialisation and training. This is what kills dogs and other pets, so how about you write an article calling for the goverment to put pet ownership to be taught at schools?
LikeReply23 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick Already wrote that one Lauren. It was in Our Dogs. I also go round schools here in Scotland doing talks to kids about dogs and pet ownership.
LikeReply123 hrs
Lauren Chilton At least thats something then. Maybe if we all put as much effort into that as people do to comment on this then we can make a massive difference to animal welfare.
LikeReply222 hrs
Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick I've been writing to the Scottish government for years to get a workshop or program in place to teach kids about caring for pets. It's important that kids realise that when they ask for a dog, they're taking on a big responsibility and their parents need to know it too. 

Far too many people, especially this time of year buy a pup and don't realise the work they have to put in to train the pup and the responsibility they're taking on.
LikeReply222 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Leanne Benson Max WAS put to sleep for no good reason! He was handed over to the Blue Cross because his owners are elderly and have health issues such as cancer and angina and could no longer give him the full care he needed. They felt they were doing the best thing...See More
LikeReply3Yesterday at 9:04amEdited
Lauren Chilton Actually a pet's behaviour can change in minutes, hours, days or months as all pets are indviduals. Just like some humans can cope better in some situations than others. I just don't think we can judge when we didn't complete the assessment or training.
LikeReply123 hrs
Leanne Benson But Max's behaviour was only reported as being aggressive 3 weeks after being at BX. Two weeks before that his owner was getting good reports from them about how well he was doing, so common sense should have kicked in and made the staff aware that any change in behaviour was due to kennel stress. A problem that would have been sorted had he been allowed to go to the home that had been found for him and had another dog not been allowed to enter his space
LikeReply23 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Sheila Mclachlan Unfortunately Lauren the misguided actions by one centre has cast a blight over all Blue Cross work and brought into question its stated ethic of never putting a healthy dog down. The fact that the centre in question or more senior management have not...See More
Lauren Chilton The charity doesn't state that they never put a healthy dog down as they are a muliti species charity, i think you will find thats the dogs trust
LikeReply123 hrs
Sheila Mclachlan Lauren on their website it categorically states, 'we will never put a healthy animal down when it has an offer of a home'. So ....
LikeReply20 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Louis Dobson Joanne, our information comes from the owners and people within Blue Cross. We are not getting our info from the press, the press are getting their info from us.
Blue Cross Thanks for your support, Lauren.
Lauren Chilton You are welcome
LikeReply23 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Veronica Bates Since theres a lot of people who have professionally worked with dogs.. if anyone can help me with my own.. my dog suffers from autoimmune heamolytic anemia and is in desperate need for a transfusion.. pdsa wont do this and the only vetinary group the will will cost me 2,000. I need yo know any organisations or anything whatsoever would be willing to help. I have already set a fundme page in attempt for this but because shes a pet not everyone thinks on the same lines. 

More on the subjext of this topic.. o was quite alarned to come here and read what has been put from such an organisation.. but i havent read enough into it to understand what has exactly gone on.. RIP to Max and blue cross whether your choices were right or wrong people still need an explination as a funded organisation by the people they deserve an explination whatever the situation
LikeReply18 hrs
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

One question why?........if you remove it, then you are guilty....shame on you

Sue Haslett's photo.
Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">Write a comment...
Blue Cross Hi Sue, we have a full explanation about Max's case over on our website. Hope you'll have a look and let us know if you have any more questions. Many thanks. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/statement-about-max-0
Mandy Jones, Director of Rehoming at Blue Cross said: "We are sad to confirm that following further…
BLUECROSS.ORG.UK
Sue Haslett Sadly I feel there is more to this story, but we the public will never know the true story as there are 2 versions of events.
If you say this what happened then how come the story became so public? And who said that he had no behavioural problems.
I personally will not continue this debate....See More
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a reply...
Yit May Foo Interesting that everything about this seems to have been taken down from the Blue Cross site. I wonder why? Do Blue Cross not want us to make up our own minds about this?

RIP Max - answers needed!

Comments
Blue Cross Hi Susan, thanks for getting in touch. Please do let us know which questions you would like answered or do give our Supporter Care team a call for a chat on 0300 790 9903.
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

Do you know what, none of us where there, none of us were involved. How many people here actually know anything about behaviour? How many are actually involved with rescue other than hiding behind a keyboard. Regardless of what you think due to th recent incident blue cross do an amazing job. Over 8000 animals were rehomed last year. Over 29000 were helped with veterinary treatment. With out the blue cross what would have happened to these? Who would have rehomed these dogs? Most other rescues are full and certainly don't have room for 8000 more dogs a year. Who would have paid the bills for nearly 30 thousand dogs! THOUSAND!!!!!' What happened with max is sad however it would not have been a desission made lightly and not made by on person. Regardless of what people think about the blue cross CEO taking money, or the charity not caring about animal welfare I ask you to look at the numbers and tell me who would have been there for those animals if not The blue cross.

I know your aware of this already but I take my hat off to you! The job you do is tough, hard work and grueling. You do it amazingly and continue to face up to the hardship you have gained. People need to be aware of th real world and Step into your shoes. 8000 animals saved bravo blue cross you save lives and are indisposable. You will always have my support and trust!

Jack Dillon's photo.
Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...
Blue Cross Thanks for your support, Jack. Best wishes.
Louis Dobson Er, I do courses on behaviour and have been involved with rescues, and run one. Several rescues offered Max a place, but Blue Cross are control freaks who were determined to kill him. 

Clear enough?
Lynda Bryant Suggest you read Carol Reynolds comment below... from the words of the dog's owners. They WERE involved. And yes, some of us are involved with rescue and knowledgable about behaviour. We just have some compassion and do more than tick boxes.
Donna Rigby Max didn't exhibit behavioural problems until he went into kennels. Rescues were offering to take him but Blue Cross took decision to euthanise anyway, he deserved a chance as he didn't have any issues before he went into their care. 
All the good work they've done is tarnished and people will no longer trust Blue Cross.
Hayley Balfe They were offered help from other charities but as usual refused the help. They think they know it all & would rather put a healthy dog to sleep than accept help. This is not the first & wont be the last but this case has been publicised. About time people knew the truth about large charities, they are a money making business. You are much better donating to a small charity that care. Yes they do some good work & publicise that but they don't tell you the bad bits. And this just shows how they lie to cover themselves. This dog reacted badly to kennels, if you ask any behaviourist they will tell you that this happens. The answer was to accept help from a foster home, not to KILL him!
Sheila Mclachlan Jack in many ways I agree with you but look at the story round Max and ask yourself was procedure really carried out? Why are their so many unanswered questions? Why such lack of clarity, openness and honesty by management either at Thirsk or higher up. When you get questions such as this that remain unanswered then those of us who are dog rescuers, lovers, supporters of rescue charities have a right to accountability. Max is the one we know about. How many do we not know about because they had no on to speak for them? All this because of poor management right they way through. I would suggest that those involved in Max's situation are withdrawn from working with the dogs and retrained.
Lorna Lo Sorry, just because they have done good deeds elsewhere does not excuse they f@@ked up big style with max. It makes you wonder how many other animals they have euthanised in this way that hasn't attracted the publicity max has. Think about it.
Janis Coeshall Didn't know there were so many experts who knew the full story! I am amazed at the knowledge being shown!!!
Dominique Taylor And how many have they unnecessarily PTS like Max?? They won't give u those figures will they!
y are nothing short of murderers, he deserved a chance to prove himself.
The Blue Cross are now getting a bad name and losing support because of the actions of those at the Blue Cross Thirsk who have played god, they knew that action was being organized to help Max, to get him assessed properly, yet they went ahead with this despicable act, FOR WHAT ? poor frightened Max, rip heart emoticon  
Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

You know what is so sad about your killing of Max today? It's all the other animals that will now die because people will stop supporting your charity. In killing Max you have sentenced so many other animals to death. Did you ever stop to think of the consequences of your action? Clearly not!

Comments
Lizzy Hideho Taylor
<input class="_1osa mentionsHidden" name="add_comment_text" tabindex="-1" data-ovi-hasaddedvoiceinputfunction="true" x-webkit-speech="" speech="" lang="en-US" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -99999px; opacity: 0; position: absolute;">
Write a comment...

Who the heck do you think you are killing Max after Heather had already informed you she had legal rep? I will not be donating to you now... frown emoticon

web analytics
Copyright © 2000- Aimoo Free Forum All rights reserved.