DENTON (WBAP/KLIF News ) – The City of Denton fired its animal services manager following public outrage days after a family’s dog was euthanized before they had a chance to claim him earlier this month.
Mindy Henry was hired in March 2023. In a statement, the city said they became aware of “some misrepresentations on her employment application and during an interview.”
The almost 13-year-old dog, named Gunner, was put down by the shelter before the 72-hour stray hold period. He was brought in by citizen on September 3 after being found near I-35 and West University.
John Gilcrease, Gunner’s owner said his dog was chipped and wore a tracking GPS collar 24/7. He said realized that Gunner was missing that evening and found out where his dog was via social media.
In a statement on his GoFundMe campaign to raise money for animal rights, Gilcrease said when he called the animal facility to retrieve his dog, he was told that Wednesday’s were closed to the public and that they could pick him up the next morning.
Instead, Gilcrease wrote they were met with devastating news.
“When we arrived to get our playful fun loving family puppy he was presented to us in a red garbage bag,” he wrote. “We are rallying anyone who is willing to stand behind us in legal fees that it will cost to ensure another family never has to endure what we have.”
The Denton Record Chronicle reports the city admitted that staff at the local animal care and adoption center did not consult a veterinarian before euthanizing him.
A third-party consultant has been hired to review the shelter’s policies and procedures.
Copyright 2024. WBAP/KLIF News. All Rights Reserved. The Denton Record Chronicle contributed to this report.
