The escalation of animal deaths at MCAS
Aside from the practice of labeling every unwanted dog “unhealthy and untreatable” to dispose of them, MCAS deaths are also increasing because of negligent animal care practices.
Several years ago Director Erin Grahek and the MCAS Operation managers created an Animal Health Supervisor position and filled the position with an onsite veterinary technician. When asked why that was the choice, not a licensed veterinarian, then Operations Manager, Marian Cannell responded, “Because I like her.”
Veterinary assistants and technicians without supervision now routinely diagnose, prescribe, and create treatment plans.
MCAS has 3 on-site licensed veterinarians, none in a supervisory role. A licensed veterinarian must be in charge of animal health. The Veterinary Practice Act requires that “all duties of a veterinary technician must be performed under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian (ORS 686.030).” Further, any party who diagnosis, prescribes and treats animals must be a licensed veterinarian (OAR 875-030-0045, Unprofessional of Dishonorable Conduct for Certified Veterinary Technicians). This is the explicit list of what a Certified Veterinary Technician may do while under mandatory supervision by a licensed veterinarian.
- Bruce MCAS 380925 was diagnosed and treated with Cerenia and bland food for his symptoms by a certified veterinary technician with the approval of the animal care supervisor. He was found dead in his kennel the following day. The, after the fact, likely diagnosis was described as bloat following an informal necropsy conducted by an on site veterinarian who was not part of his treatment plan.
- Sir Lunch-a-Lot MCAS 380917 featured in the testimony link above died from undiagnosed pneumonia, a preventable death No on-site veterinarian was part of his care. It wasn’t a mistake. Its malpractice.
The current policies and practices at MCAS ensure that needless deaths of shelter animals will continue.
These are not “isolated cases.” They occur week after week.
Will Chair Jessica Vega Pederson and the county commissioners act? “Business as usual” has been to do nothing and to protect the management… at the expense of animals’ lives and public service.
Gail O’Connell-Babcock
Public Testimony Transcript, Sir Lunch-A-Lot
Sir Lunch-a-lot’s records, owner info redacted
Bruce’s records, owner info redacted
ORS and OAR regarding Veterinary medicine
MCAS job descriptions for: Medical Director, Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Technician, and Animal Technician 1 & 2.
Multnomah County Animal Services Organizational Chart