Valid Questions

 It's a valid question.. 

Why am I so upset?

One of the trolls, presumably working for the other side, asked this in one of those passive-aggressive replies to the most recent Facebook video I posted.

So, I took a moment, and asked myself, why am I so upset,,,  still so upset, and, still here dwelling on this? I have a veterinary clinic to run. More people, and pets in need of help then I can manage (go back a few blogs to read about why this is happening; hint; corporate ownership), and a personal life I would like to live in the crevices of the work life.

The problem I have is;

The taxpayers of Harford Co. fund 60% of the humane society's budget. A 1.8 M budget.

The taxpayers expect that the HSHC, as a non-profit, will follow the letter of their mission statement. See page 4 here.

The shelter has no reason, or inclination to be transparent. They will regurgitate the same old tagline; "we are a private facility." Or, they view transparency different than I do. Or, they simply choose to not ask questions they don't want to be troubled/bothered with the answers to. (See previous letters from past employees/volunteers here). 

"..and listen, lemme say one other thing, if we're wrong, I mean, you learn from your mistakes, and I am I am, and we are, more than willing to identify any mistakes that we've made and correct them going forward. However, we don't believe that there are any things that we're doing wrong." George Heidelmaier.  Mr Heidelmaier does not return emails. He does not face questions of inquiry. It is very hard to take criticism, constructive, or otherwise, when you ignore, deflect, and dismiss the people around you, and those in the trenches of the day to day life at the shelter. How many times have I been told "the board does not have any direct interactions with the day to day activities of the shelter." A LOT. You don't because you are either too busy to do your job, want to retain deniable plausibility.

posted on 5/26/25 Memorial Day
thanks for following our Facebook page.
(not sure what the Supreme Court has to do with this?)

A document was given to me two weeks ago. It is the Board Minutes Meeting from 4/28/25. In this document the last paragraph states that the board decided to not pursue charges for monies stolen/missing/misappropriated/embezzled (I am not certain which applies) until after the budget meetings were done. This is yet another deceitful attempt to mislead the taxpayers. I have given the minutes to the county government and what has ensued since is a search for the source of the leak. Why isn't the county government interested in the content of the document and only the source?

Which I interpret as honest, genuine, open, or demonstrating the integrity commiserate with the mission they are endowed with. The example they provided at the budget hearing of 4/28/25 

They cannot afford to feed the animals more than once a day. See blog on this here.

They cannot afford to treat the parvo dogs. Their argument is listed here. None, of this is provided via any of their 4 veterinarians they claim they have. Where is the deceit in this? Well,, how many hours do these veterinarians work? It is not equivalent to 1 FT vet. Next question to ask, What are they paying these vets? I have heard it is less than multiple other management employees. Why is that?

They cannot afford two full time veterinarians.

They cannot afford to keep all of the animals that they have. Yet, they have changed the policy on unadoptable cats, and made behavior euthanasias more prevalent. (These numbers are part of the dilemma of reporting Live Release and the goal of staying above 90%).

They cannot afford to keep the volunteers. See previous blogs. I asked the County Executive to offer an open, anonymous meeting to hear some of their experiences. The most concerning part of all of this is the degree to which people are afraid to speak out publicly. 

They terminate volunteers (yes, people who are not paid), for challenging the conditions, decisions, and advocating for the animals they come spend their own time with. It is absolutely inconceivable to me that anyone can be punished, or threatened with termination 

Page 3 of the Standard of Care published on the HSHC website; 

HSHC strives to meet or exceed the standards outlined in this document whenever possible. 

Who wrote this?

But,

They can afford to send 4 people to Vegas for a week,, and then not expect me to be upset about the poolside photos that caption; "current situation" with toes and a drink. 4/12/25. 

They can afford to pay for PR, (affiliated with major league baseball) crisis management firms to tidy up their social media marketing as another lure for those donor dollars. What did this cost the taxpayers?

They pay for a headhunter, XXX, the same headhunter placed the previous ED. The one with 10 shelter placements in 15 years. Further, if the HSHC pursues allegations of missing funds with the prev ED will the other shelters have similar concerns? I have said before, follow the money. It's always about the money, isn't it? Again, cost to taxpayers please?

They can afford to hold onto unadoptable cats longer as they alienate and seek payment for these cats from the rescues who have previously placed hundreds of unadoptable cats. They changed their policy of transferring barn cats, the cats so poorly socialized/traumatized that they are deemed 'unsuitable for a home' to selling them for a $25 adoption fee. It costs about $10 a day to keep an animal at a shelter, most unadoptable cats are a liability vs an asset, and the HSHC is now so petty and vindictive (see previous interactions between the rescues who have severed ties with them) that they are now doing what they have historically done, weaponized the compassionate actions of those who just want to help an animal in need. See Barn Cat Buddy program here.

Here are my questions;

What makes the HSHC immune to the criteria the rest of the non-profits have to adhere to? 

Board members are brought onboard via what mechanism, with what criteria? How can 60% of the budget provide 1 board seat?

What board members hold a license that makes them personally responsible for the legal, financial, and ethical information they are privy to? See HSHC Board minutes from 2/28/25 last paragraph.

Who owns the buildings that the taxpayers paid for on their property? Does this mean Harford County is stuck with HSHC because we were silly enough to build something we no longer own, or need but wouldn't have access to?

Does anyone understand what having a license, (with much looser criteria than I have to follow in my private practice), about who can euthanize an animal at a shelter. Did you know that the very loosely designated criteria of who can perform a euthanasia is provided by the MD Dept of Ag. There are checks and balances in place. 

Every life matters. Every life at every place deserves a chance. In this county, with its citizens, the taxpayers expect that treatable animals will be treated. Euthanasia will be done by a veterinarian only after they have gotten an examination by a veterinarian when they are deemed to have "severe parvo symptoms" (see parvovirus notes on the HSHC page here). Why can't anyone give me the information on which veterinarian oversaw these dogs and determined their health status? Still to this day, over 2 months later, I do not have this information. This is what transparency, making a poor decision, and integrity is all about.

,,,,, and most importantly for me, I am furious that someones animals are being euthanized based on someone else's non-credentialed, self-admitted no animal care experience, nevermind, not a shred of veterinary experience, at their whim and without legal recourse. If that pet was my own pet, and I always treat every patient that comes through my private practices door as if it is my own, then I would topple this place with every dying breath I took. 

"trashy and whiny"

Here is their posted Mission and Vision Statement;

"MISSION AND VISION The Humane Society of Harford County promotes the humane treatment of homeless, stray and abandoned animals by providing shelter, care, adoptions and community education. HSHC’s vision is to end pet overpopulation and to advocate for the humane treatment of animals. HSHC envisions a shelter where all healthy and treatable animals find new homes, where they are housed in a low-stress, comfortable environment, where spay/neuter surgeries are performed on shelter pets prior to their adoption, where residents can turn in times of personal crisis for help with their pets, where citizens are educated on the proper care of animals, and where abused and neglected animals can receive the love and care they need to recover. Working in close partnership with the Harford County government, Animal Control (under the direction of the Harford County Sheriff’s Office), rescue organizations, local veterinarians, our volunteers and foster homes, and the citizens of Harford County, HSHC is confident that it can and will achieve its goals."

So, that is it. That is why I am still here, and still so angry.

I am not alone in the belief that;

Pets are not property. 

The good intentions, hard work, and immense physical, emotional, and financial endeavors the public places in the HSHC's hands is not consistent with their ethics or values.

Me, personally, I am way out on a limb, feeling like I have to continually ask myself if I am just being a drama-queen, or a siren in the fog trying to steer ships that I cannot see from harms way, or some girl in the woods just crying wolf over-and-over-again, without any chance of the woods ever listening, or, caring, or having any inclination to doing anything about any of it? I have pets to take care of myself and here I am fixated on this. Why don't I take my own advice and choose my battles better? Why can't I just give up like everyone else has?

See you all tonight at 7 pm 212 S Bond St Bel Air MD for the Q&A session of the Harford County Council and the Humane Society of Harford County.

Shelter Feeding Guidelines. No, Once A Day IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH

One of the most furiating cost saving measures I heard about at the Humane Society of Harford County, is that they reduced the feeding schedule to once a day as a cost saving measure.

Here are the recommendations from the experts; What we call "best practice" standards.

Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters- 2x daily

https://jsmcah.org/index.php/jasv/article/view/42/20

The amount and frequency of feeding vary depending on life stage, species, size, activity level, health status of the animal, and the particular diet chosen. Ideally, healthy adult dogs are fed twice daily, and cats are fed multiple small meals or allowed to forage throughout the day. When managing starved animals or those with unique nutritional needs, veterinary input must be sought. Healthy puppies and kittens as well as lactating and pregnant animals must be fed small amounts frequently or have food available through the day (i.e. free-choice).

ASPCA PRO for Shelters- 2x

Feeding Frequency 

All animals should be fed on a predictable schedule to provide enrichment, reward, and to reduce stress. Ideally, all animals are offered food at minimum twice daily with food intake monitored throughout the day. Uneaten food should be discarded and replaced at least every 24 hours.  

• In breeds like deep-chested or large breed dogs, feeding two smaller meals may reduce risk of life-threatening bloat and gastric torsion which occurs when an animal eats quickly and takes in excessive air.  

Best friends- 2x daily

Should you change your dog’s diet over the course of his or her life?

You should change your dog’s diet according to age and special needs requirements. Most puppies are eating dry puppy food by six weeks of age; they need three or four small fresh meals offered throughout the day. At six months, puppies can go down to two meals per day.

https://bestfriends.org/pet-care-resources/feeding-your-dog#:~:text=Most%20puppies%20are%20eating%20dry,his%20growth%20through%20diet%20change.

Why is feeding twice a day so important?

These animals are under a high degree of stress, much higher than a normal at-home-couch-potato dog. They need extra calories. Even if they don't "look" stressed, they are. It is a noisy, bustling place. Lots of people, animals, noise. Think of being in a county holding facility, I guarantee your gi tract is going to tell you that your body is stressed. 

These dogs look forward to food. Because, they are hungry, if they aren't so stressed out that they are nauseous. Then the whole catabolic body system forces the immune system into overdrive. Ever wonder why disease runs a much higher risk to shelter animals? This is part of the equation.

Some dogs are so hungry that they resource guard. They are under great scrutiny at the shelter to be deemed "safe for adoption." Some of these dogs are just afraid of losing their food so they guard it. Want to know how many animals are euthanized at the shelter due to behavioral issues? I don't because I am worried this current feeding schedule will exacerbate the aggression/fear/anxiety. 

The professional timeline of the previous HSHC Executive Director

A headhunter firm was paid to find this, and the previous ED. As an employer looking for a new hire this information is pertinent. An employee who only stays at a job for a few months has reasons. Due diligence is the term we use to look into a job hires past. 

*April 2007- April 2008- Boggs Mountain Humane Shelter  in Tiger, GA(Linked in, Shelter Director)

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/ex-director-georgia-animal-shelter-charged-killing-animals-after-being-flna8c11085479

*April 2008- April 2010- Arizona Humane Society (linked in, Director of Support Services, Assistant Director on the web and an old linked in)

*Sept 2011- July 2012- Cedar Valley Humane Society in Iowa City, IO (“Just under a year” according to 8/8/12 article and then left for GA, also on Linked in as Executive Director) 

https://www.thegazette.com/article/cedar-valley-humane-society-again-seeking-new-director/

2013- Atlanta Pet Rescue and Adoption Inc (Smyrna, GA- Executive Director. Merged with Best Friends and became Best Friends Atlanta in 2016) Found on Nonprofit explorer, listed as ED

https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/name_search/index?q=citrullo

*November 2013- May 2019- Humane Educational Society (Linked In, Exec Director where his wife worked for him in the thrift store, left citing health concerns right after $13 mill new center was approved)

https://www.danashavin.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/CHATTER85-DEC15-HUMANE.pdf

*July 2019- November 2020- Northeast Animal Shelter (LinkedIn, Executive Director)

https://www.chattanoogan.com/2019/8/3/394058/Bob-Citrullo-Former-HES-Director-Now.aspx

2020- Humane Society of Weld County Evans, Colorado (Now NOCO Humane, also formerly Larimer Humane Society) Found on Nonprofit explorer, listed as ED. Didn't say how long but wasn't listed the next year so couldn't have been more than 6 weeks if he left other org in November

https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/840608546

?- June 2021- Humane Society of Scott County, Davenport, IO (Interim Director, https://qctimes.com/exclusive/back-to-business/back-to-business-scott-county-humane-society/article_53029736-c4a8-11eb-8eca-13f4be8f25ef.html

https://www.facebook.com/qctimes/videos/154765160040697)

June 2021- Jan 2022- Kershaw County Humane Society in Camden, SC (Exec Director, article,  not on linked in)
https://www.animals24-7.org/2022/06/22/has-the-humane-society-of-utah-ever-heard-of-adoption-screening/

Jan 2022- June 2022- Humane Society of Union County, SC (Linked In, Exec director. Also article)

June 2022- Sept 2024- Humane Society of Harford County 

http://www.daggerpress.com/2022/06/07/humane-society-of-harford-county-announces-bob-citrullo-as-new-executive-director/

11/11/24- 12/5/24- Dubuque Regional Humane Society, Dubuque, IO (exec director)

2025- San Antonio Pets Alive, San Antonio Tx (exec director)

Parvovirus Outbreak at The Harford County Humane Society

A friend, (I use the colloquium lightly), reminded me that I overstep. I am fairly certain she just wanted to bark; "STAY IN YOUR OWN LANE!," but she is incapable of confrontation, so simple self-reflective corrections, (as if she is some expert on manners), is her go-to.

I suppose there is some merit to her observations. I will choose to ignore them as an insultive reminder to her lack of directness. This is, afterall, a battle of egos amongst a nest of Karens. This world we all reside in is now too full of too much access and too many people. All of these crowds with their noses in everyone else's business. The suburban version of DOGE, now ubiquitous with the American dream, and its amendment yet to be numbered. 

In my defense, (somewhere early on I need to say this), I am an open animal welfare advocate. There are no geographical boundaries for this calling. I am also a private practice veterinarian and hospital owner. It is the oldest privately owned practice in the county. 

This all stems from my previous encounters as a volunteer veterinarian at my local animal shelter. A few years ago I volunteered my time, along with one of our technicians, every Wednesday at the shelter. I would arrive to see the list of new intakes. These were the pets who had been recently found or surrendered. All of these pets were given examinations, vaccinated, and dewormed. We also checked for microchips and made sure every pet was treated compassionately and given every opportunity to make the shelter experience short lived and comfortable. There was an amazing team of pet care professionals whom I trusted and believed in. They were there for the residents of the shelter. That much was obvious. 

Above the staff members that I knew and worked with questions loomed. There was always a degree of concern that resources were available to meet the needs of the shelter. The allocation of resources to meet these needs was perceived as inconsistent and incongruous. It always appeared as if the Board, and as extension of their power, the Executive Director and their management team, were more focused on the public/social media face and needed incoming donations. There is a lot of money, a few self-inflated egos, and a list of cronies decades old to account for this. People are scared to talk. Scared to be questioned, and all share the same empathy for animals. It is a cat and mouse game of hushing rumors, and convenient plausible deniability. There are many, many, many animals who have paid with their lives to be a part of this story. I will always remain focused here. I suspect that I will be alone for much of this journey. The accusations from the shelter have already begun. If you are afraid to be transparent hurl accusations. The HCHS has fired dozens of volunteers, employees and staff who dare to inquire/advocate.  There is a veiled face of meeting the obligations of the contract HCHS holds with Harford County, and a convenient reality that they are "private" therefore immune to scrutiny, transparency, and oversight outside of their own infrastructure. 

 

From their website; see HCHS About tab

The Humane Society of Harford County, Inc., is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to the welfare and well-being of the approximately 3,500 animals that come to us each year.

Our Mission

The Humane Society of Harford County promotes the humane treatment of homeless, stray and abandoned animals by providing shelter, care, adoptions and community education.

Our Vision

Our vision is to end pet overpopulation and to advocate and educate for the humane treatment of animals.

• The Humane Society is an open-admission shelter. We accept every Harford County animal that is brought through our doors, if we cannot help the pet stay in it’s home.
• We give the animals the food, shelter, warmth, medical care and loving attention they desperately need.
• We subscribe to the Five Freedoms: freedom from hunger or thirst; freedom from discomfort; freedom from pain, injury or disease; freedom to express normal behavior; and freedom from fear and distress.
• Although we are not part of the Harford County government or the Humane Society of the US, we do act as the County’s sole facility for the care and treatment of animals. This means that animals found as strays, or seized by animal control, come to our shelter to be cared for and rehabilitated if possible.
• We are an independent nonprofit organization, and rely on the charitable support of friends like you to enable us to continue our lifesaving work.

Our Values

• We value every animal entrusted to our care.
• We value our employees, who give so much in caring for our animals.
• We value our volunteers, fosters and supporters, who generously contribute their time, talents and resources to support our mission.
• We value our role in the community, and are always striving to improve the way animals and humans are treated.

Page 13 of the HCHS Standards Of Care Manual provides this: 

VIII. EUTHANASIA A. POLICY Euthanasia is performed at HSHC in a humane manner as needed to maintain a manageable population of healthy, treatable, and adoptable animals. Euthanasia for space is always an absolute last resort, when all other options have been exhausted. The Executive Director, Shelter Operations Director, and Shelter Veterinary Director must jointly approve all euthanasia decisions. The signature of the Executive Director as well as either the Shelter Veterinary Director or Shelter Operations Director is required on the euthanasia approval forms. Only two to three medical staff and/or animal care staff that are certified in euthanasia or are trained to assist are allowed to be present during the euthanasia process. This is to ensure a smooth and stress-free environment for the animal as well as the person(s) performing euthanasia. The Executive Director may make special exceptions to this policy in his/her discretion. The Responsible Individual listed on the Maryland Department of Agriculture Animal Control Facility License must be euthanasia certified, per Maryland State Law.

It appears that this document was taken from BARCS. It further does not appear to be updated yearly, and does not provide accurate information wrt the euthanasia of the 3 parvo positive dogs euthanized on or about 3/10/25.

Letter to the Executive Director of the HCHS. 

Ms. Hickman, acting Executive Director HCHS,

At present, I have called and left a message at your number at the shelter twice. Once on 3/11 and again today. I still await a call back on both.

I am seeking clarification on the outbreak of parvovirus of 4 dogs (that I know of) from last week. Specifically Monday 3/10 through Wednesday 3/12/2025.

Jarrettsville Veterinary Center called the shelter on 3/10 as soon as we were notified via email distribution of the outbreak.  I also reached out to the company representative that provides the iv treatment for this disease to ascertain more doses in the case of additional dogs coming up positive for this disease. We offered all of this at no cost. I also offered all of the supplies and a place off site to assist with providing these treatments. 

The result was that no one from the shelter took us up on the offer and no dogs were treated. With this I am seeking the following information;

1. When were dogs discovered as being sick? Please provide date, time and which veterinarian, or veterinary care member, was involved.

2. When were these dogs tested? I would like to get an understanding of the number of dogs exposed, number of dogs vaccinated before exposure, and the number that tested positive?

3. Of those that tested positive, which veterinarian oversaw their care?

4. It is my understanding that all of the dogs in the shelter who tested positive were euthanized. Is this correct? If so, who euthanized them? Which veterinarian oversaw this and which veterinarian determined this was the appropriate treatment course?

5. What is the protocol for who decides which animals are euthanized? Does this follow the guidelines as published online for the HCHS SOC guidelines?

6. Were the recently adopted dogs notified that they may have been exposed? If so, what was offered to these newly adopted dogs owners wrt care and treatment options if they were parvo positive?

I hope that you can help clarify some of these. If you cannot please provide me with the name(s) of those who can. 

It appears that I did not contact the correct HCHS personnel to get the treatment options these dogs might have benefitted from. I am also concerned that I never received a call back from you, so I am puzzled as to who makes decisions for the animals in the HCHS's care.

Thank you for your time,

I await your response. If this needs to be directed to someone else please let me know,

Dr Magnifico

Jarrettsville Vet Center

The response;

Hello Dr.Magnifico,

                Thank you for reaching out. I am currently out of the office so have not yet received a voicemail. It was my understanding that you had previously called myself as well as our Clinic Manager, simultaneously, whom did maintain communication with your office. There was no need to duplicate efforts and confuse matters. While we appreciate your offer for services, we did not require them at the time. We did however reach out to every adopter that had been served between 3/1 and 3/12 to offer those treatments from Jarrettsville Vet. A total of 3 dogs were euthanized due to Parvo, 2 in house and 1 while under the care of AEH. A decision never made lightly and always in accordance with our SOC, County MOU and internal protocol. 

While we appreciate the support of our local veterinary community and strive to maintain these relationship’s, I would like to remind you that we are a shelter, not private veterinary practice with the financial luxury of gold standard care. The unfortunate reality is one that includes euthanasia as an outcome for some of these animals. In the future feel free to continue to reach out to either myself or our Clinic Manager.             

Thank you again for all that you do. 

My reply;

Thank you for your prompt reply.

The treatment offered for the parvovirus dogs was being given at no cost. Was this not provided to you? I feel that it was very clear to everyone we spoke to.

I will ask for a meeting with the Board to review the questions I asked. 

While I appreciate the challenges at a shelter I do believe every effort should be made to treat animals.  Unless I am mistaken it appears that you cannot, or did not, provide the veterinary oversight I inquired about. To have a treatment options provided at no cost to the shelter and no veterinarian at the forefront of an infectious disease outbreak is troubling. 

Sincerely 

Dr Magnifico 

Email exchange from April 4, 2025 Hickm <amandah@harfordshelter.org>	Sat, Apr 5, 9:48 AM

Dr.Magnifico, 

      Our official statement regarding this matter is available online via the following link. 

Parvovirus & the Shelter Response - The Humane Society of Harford County

Parvovirus & the Shelter Response We’d like to address the misinformation being disseminated about our recent brush with parvovirus in our canine population. Much to our dismay, the information being presented is false and is misleading people to believe that there are deceptive and inhumane practices at the shelter. The only authority about what is happening at the shelter is … Continued www.harfordshelter.org

Best,

 

---

From: Krista Magnifico 
Sent: Friday, April 4, 2025 10:36 AM
To: Amanda Hickman <amandah@harfordshelter.org>
Subject: HCHS

 

Before publishing your response to my first email about the parvo situation I wanted to remind you of the following; I offered  free help to these dogs before any social media posts happened. I also asked for specific information to clarify the actions and decisions made on their behalf and was dismissed.

I do not believe the shelter had any intention to help treat the puppies at the shelter with the parvovirus monoclonal antibody treatment we had an offered for free, nor do I believe a veterinarian was the primary caregiver and overseer of their care.

Ultimately the truth always comes out and based on the shelters previous actions you will likely be the person who it falls upon to be held responsible. I was genuine in my offer and I remain genuine in my intentions to help any and every animal I can.

I’m not afraid to stand up to advocate for an animal. These dogs deserved a chance, like every animal does. There are so many people who are affected by this. Their voices and the pets they love also deserve to be heard.


Sincerely,
Dr Magnifico


To summarize  and to clarify; 4 dogs in total (that we were told about) were euthanized, (not 3 that the ED stated). Did she not know how many? She is 1 of only 3 people that can authorize a euthanasia on the HCHS premises. I have spoken to the other 2 who can authorize it and they did not.

The questions remain;

Were any of these dogs under their stray hold? If so, what was done to insure someone's pet was not denied a chance at treatment/survival?

Who is incharge of euthanizing? Is it one of 3 people for strays? 2 out of 3 people for residents? Who is the ranking decision maker currently? An ED with no animal experience?

Under what guidelines are animals euthanized?

If that animal has a rescue who has agreed to take them why were they euthanized before the rescue came for them? (ex Junior and his brother). The question remains; did a licensed veterinarian authorize Juniors euthanasia? 

Why isn't infectious disease managed solely by the most appropriate person to do so; a veterinarian?

Why wouldn't the shelter have told me,, our veterinary team, that all of the dogs had already been euthanized while we discussed how to help them on March 10/11?

Why are so many volunteers being terminated who consistently state that they were terminated when they spoke up for the animals in their care? 

Why does the Board state that they "do not have direct involvement with the shelters activities yet deny meeting with those who do? 

Is the separation of duties, oversight and responsibility a mere convenient excuse for plausible deniability? If you have the responsibility to hire and fire don't you also have the responsibility of oversight?

What is my lane? Well, if I am overstepping I would add that it is impossible for me to be made aware, and in this case I am directly responsible for the actions/inactions of 4 dogs who had a chance at survival at no cost, and were instead euthanized without (apparently) no veterinary oversight, (except the one case that was sent to the ER), and a long list of grievances about animal care that was so compelling I called the head of AC to report them (to date still no response from them). The state of Maryland has a law that can be found here about mandatory reporting. Was there cruelty, neglect, mismanagement, and denial of veterinary care that is available? If there are protocols to protect the lives of the pets at the shelter and they aren't being followed, then yes. The answer is yes.

Where are we now? The HCHS has asked for an additional $500 to be added to their budget. Why would the taxpayers want to provide additional funds when the shelter has so many unanswered and unresolved concerns about the welfare, safety, and protocols to protect the pets and the pet loving people of their community. See more on this here.

The HSHC response to the parvovirus outbreak, March 2025

There is a lack of transparency, a retribution approach to whistle blowers with inquiries, and a deceitful response to challenging actions at the shelter. Based on previous tactics to avoid, deny and dismiss their publicly posted response is provided here. I am posting it as I presume they will remove this once the public scrutiny becomes unavoidable.

Parvovirus & the Shelter Response

We’d like to address the misinformation being disseminated about our recent brush with parvovirus in our canine population. Much to our dismay, the information being presented is false and is misleading people to believe that there are deceptive and inhumane practices at the shelter. The only authority about what is happening at the shelter is the shelter itself.

Facts About HSHC

1. We are an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) open admission shelter and have served the Harford County community since 1946. On average we care for nearly 3,500 homeless, stray and abandoned animals annually.

2. We are not a private, for-profit, veterinary practice.

3. We are not a division of the Harford County Government.

–> Want to know more about Shelter Medicine? Click HERE.

Facts About Parvovirus

1. We vaccinate every animal that comes to the shelter with the DAPP vaccine. DAPP stands for Distemper-Adenovirus-Parainfluenza-Parvovirus. Puppies and unvaccinated adult dogs are most susceptible to parvo, and  unfortunately, if a dog has already been exposed to parvo before arriving at the shelter, the vaccine will not be entirely effective. It can take up to 14 days for symptoms to appear after a dog is infected.

2. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the symptoms of parvo are:

• • • • • lethargy
        • loss of appetite
        • vomiting
        • severe (often bloody) diarrhea
        • abdominal pain and bloating
        • fever or low body temperature (hypothermia)

Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can quickly cause dehydration, and damage to the intestines and immune system can cause septic shock. This can lead to death, with most deaths occurring within 48 to 72 hours after signs first appear.

3. Also, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, vaccinations and other preventive measures—including good hygiene—are key to avoiding canine parvovirus infection.

4. Parvo can live in the environment, on surfaces and even our pets, for a very long time and can be difficult to eradicate.

5. Treatment in severe cases includes 24-hour supportive care, IV fluids and full isolation. Caregivers must wear full PPE and discard all bedding, bowls, etc.

Facts About Parvovirus at the Shelter

1. On February 10th, a young dog was picked up as a stray by Animal Control and presented with mild symptoms. Upon arrival he was immediately isolated; SNAP tested for Parvo and received a positive result. With supportive care, his symptoms quickly subsided, and he is now fully recovered and has been adopted. There was no risk posed to the shelter’s population given the immediate isolation protocol.
**SNAP tests are rapid ELISA diagnostic devices (enzyme linked immunosorbent assay)**

2. On February 23rd we received 2 young dogs from Animal Control. On March 6th, one of these dogs was transferred to the Animal Emergency Hospital for symptoms unrelated to Parvo. Shortly after arrival to the emergency hospital the dog began exhibiting symptoms, was SNAP tested and confirmed positive for Parvo. On March 7th, due to declining health, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize.

3. On March 10th we received another adult dog as a stray from the general public that presented with severe parvo symptoms. Also, on the same day, the second dog from the February 23rd intake began exhibiting symptoms. Both were tested and confirmed positive for Parvo. Due to their declining health, the substantial costs proposed for recovery, as well as to protect our entire shelter dog population, the difficult decision was made to euthanize these 2 dogs.

4. At the time there were 75 dogs in our care. In an effort to mitigate the spread of the disease, the decision was made to temporarily suspend dog intakes, adoptions and restrict kennel access to all but a few animal care and medical staff, effective March 10th. The shelter posted publicly the decision to close temporarily and circumstances surrounding the decision. Additionally, an update to this public notice, including outcome of the 3 animals, was made on Friday, March 14th.

5. On March 11th Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were offered to us by a local veterinarian in exchange for a social media mention. mAbs are relatively new and work on a cellular level to prevent the virus from replicating in healthy cells, thereby reducing the severity of the infection and improving chances for survival. It is NOT a miracle cure nor an immediate single shot approach similar to a vaccination. At the recommendation of this veterinarian our staff veterinarian contacted the pharmaceutical company for clarification on how to safely administer this treatment. It was stated that mAbs are to be given in dogs that have been exposed to Parvo and prior to showing symptoms. It must be frozen and then thawed, given by injection, while the patient is given IV fluids and monitored for an extended period of time. A very difficult process for the shelter to undertake without risking exposure to our entire population.
–> Learn more about HSHC Parvo Treatment Cost
–> Learn more about the Drug Facts HERE

6. Given that there were no additional dogs in our care at the time that were candidates for treatment, information about mAbs and the offer for treatment were relayed to those who adopted a dog from the shelter between 3/1-3/10. Adopters wishing to pursue the treatment as a precaution were instructed to contact the local veterinarian.

7. Yet another dog was transferred into our care this past Saturday, March 29th from Animal Emergency Hospital. The multiple rapid “SNAP” tests we’ve done have all shown negative for parvo; however, this dog has remained in isolation since intake. Bloodwork has been sent out for a definitive diagnosis; meanwhile, the dog is stable and symptoms are mild.

Facts About HSHC Operations

1. HSHC has four licensed and qualified veterinarians that consult on these decisions. Our standards of practice/care are available on our website as well as on the MD Department of Agriculture’s website.

2. The Board of Directors oversees the shelter’s financial health and stability and plays a key role in planning new initiatives. Each director is an accomplished civic leader whose community service and business acumen are instrumental in ensuring that HSHC is positioned to meet the needs of a growing and changing community. Board roles are entirely volunteer and unpaid positions.

3. Our live release rate last year was 92% and for the first 3 months of this year, it’s above 90%.

4. County funding does not cover our entire budget. We rely heavily on charitable contributions from our supporters and adoption fees. For the last two years, County funding has remained flat while operating costs have risen by an average of 25%. Increased medical care expenses, higher costs for food, supplies, and utilities coupled with inflation will continue to negatively impact our organization. Harford County’s population continues to grow and will lead to an increase in stray, surrendered and abandoned animals requiring immediate care. We must continually work to find efficiencies while maintaining a high level of compassion and care that our community expects of us. We do not take public dollars for granted.

5. We’ve enhanced our service model to include a comprehensive animal behavior program. We now offer behavioral assessments, training and additional enrichment in an effort to ensure more animals are successfully placed while minimizing behavioral issues that lead to surrenders.

6. Annual impact reports and financial audits are always available on our website for public review. See 2024 data HERE.

What Does This Mean?

We still need YOUR help!

We are constantly innovating and introducing new programs that will strengthen our relationships, educate the public and advocate for humane treatment of animals everywhere.

In a recent national survey 91% of dog owners have expressed experiencing financial hardship. And according to the Humane Society of the United States, of the approximately 20 million pets in the US nearly 70% have never seen a veterinarian.

At HSHC we offer several affordable vaccine clinics throughout the year, a pet food pantry for owners in need and the highest quality care for our animals. We rely on hundreds of qualified volunteers, foster parents and a network of rescue partners, but we always need more! We are incredibly proud of the services we provide to Harford County and will continue to serve as a community resource.

Additional questions can be sent to Amanda Hickman, HSHC Executive Director. see Ms Hickmans emails to me here

Furgie's story here

Editors advice;

Please see former employees and volunteers statements here.

Please see my experience a parvovirus puppy here. The parvo puppies of Ukraine here.

See the videos that started the above here.

For more on this please see Shadow Cats TNR Facebook page, Baltimore Sun, and previous blogs that I have posted.

There are other concerns with the treatment of animals at the HCHS. There are numerous cats who have been euthanized after a local rescue stepped up to take them. This is their posted statement;

More from Shadow Cats here;

Below (in quotes) is a message from our Board regarding a concerning trend we are seeing from our local shelter.

SCTNR wants this partnership to work but we can only do that if everyone is on the same page. We are hoping by posting publicly that we will get some responses to our unanswered inquiries.

As a friendly reminder, PLEASE KEEP THIS CIVIL.

____________________________

"A growing number of concerns are being posted about the Humane Society of Harford County (HSHC). Our local rescue, Shadow Cats TNR (SCTNR), has partnered successfully with the Shelter for the past 4 years. We are now writing because we’ve observed a disturbing shift in the Shelter’s treatment of certain animals in their care.

By way of background, SCTNR rescue provides spay/neuter surgeries for more than 1800 cats per year. In comparison, the Shelter takes in an annual average of 1330 cats. With a decade of experience, SCTNR provides rescue to homeless cats that may be feral, friendly, healthy, or sick. Our Barn Cat Program places dozens of working cats every year, including many that are pulled directly from the Humane Society.

Our mission is to stop unwanted reproduction and the unnecessary killing of healthy and/or treatable animals. Rescues like ours help the Shelter increase their Live Release Rate, reduce staff workload, save money, and decrease the homeless animal population.

What prompted our concern is an incident that happened last month. The Humane Society put out a plea for partner transfer of a bonded pair of cats, Junior and BC. The pair had been living together at the Shelter since January. We responded and agreed to accept them--and fully understood that Junior was a special-needs cat who relied on his sighted buddy, BC. An SCTNR volunteer was ready and willing to foster them, and the Shelter agreed to transfer them into our care.

The following day, we received an email from the Shelter stating they had decided to euthanize Junior instead. The explanation provided was a “declining quality of life.” This sudden turn of events was confusing and frustrating, as it’s important for rescue partners to understand the Shelter’s decision-making and policies to effectively help.

We would like to improve overall communications between our organizations, particularly when it involves the transfer of animals into our care. Besides the sad case of Junior, we have not been given clear answers regarding working cats that we had also prepared to take but were later told were “no longer available.” The lack of clear and timely communication has made partnering unnecessarily difficult.

We invite the Shelter’s Board President, George Heidelmeier, and County representative, Lawrence Richardson, to please contact us to review Junior’s case, answer questions, and establish the parameters for an effective working relationship going forward."

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