Owner wanted dog to be put down ‘because he barks’

“Dogs bark. It’s what they do.”

People have been left both furious and heartbroken after news emerged that a woman asked a vet to euthanise her dog because "he barks at people". Lucie Holmes, who runs Lucie’s Animal Rescue in North Yorkshire, said that initially she was contacted by the woman asking if she would take in her two-year-old dog named Markus. Unfortunately, Lucie had to turn Markus away as her centre was already full. However, just two hours later, a local vet called her to say the owner had been in touch with them asking if they would euthanise Markus because of his barking. The vet refused the request.

Lucie’s Animal Rescue

Speaking about the incident, Lucie said:

“It’s disgusting. I have not been able to sleep much because I am still so angry. Dogs bark. It’s what they do. I told the owner there was absolutely no need for Markus to be euthanised. He needs needs time and training.”

According to the BBC, while Lucie and her husband, Sean, already share their home with nine dogs - as well as 34 kittens - they agreed to take Markus in. Lucie also explained that while she does not want to discourage people from asking for help when it comes to their pets, she does want people “to think carefully” and “do research” before owning an animal. She said: “You have to do your research and give dogs time to settle. You wouldn’t take a toddler to nursery and expect him or her to be blissfully happy immediately.”

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