Laid-Off Workers Accuse Sanctuary of Euthanizing Animals

[The Straight Story]

Laid-Off Workers Accuse Sanctuary of Euthanizing Animals

CAMBRIA, CA (AP) -- Some ex-workers at a sanctuary in San Luis Obispo County say animals are being euthanized to save money, but operators of the nonprofit refuge say deteriorating health is to blame.

Laid-off workers at the Dancing Star Foundation sanctuary in rural Harmony near Cambria and Cayucos say five to 10 aging burros, horses and cattle are being euthanized each week in an effort to cut costs.

Laid-off worker Sheldon Rowley said animals are being put down simply because they are old or lame.

Dancing Star Foundation Vice President Jane Morrison said the animals have medical problems, although she conceded operations are being cut back because of the economic crisis.

But Dancing Star spokesman Roger Gillott said animal quality-of-life issues led to euthanizations.

http://www.news10.net/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=55084&catid=2