Justice for Podenco Mr Bones - a call for change

From Bev Farmer

'This is a long but important post and it would be greatly appreciated if you can share it. Paws on Hearts/Aguiproan Animal Rescue And Rehoming

As a rescuer, this is one of our greatest fears. Many rescues, including Paws on Hearts Animal Rescue and Rehoming, work tirelessly to ensure their dogs are safe, even after rehoming. A common practice is to dual-register microchips in both the adopter’s name and the rescue’s name. In theory, this system ensures that both parties must be consulted before a rescue dog is euthanised.

But tragically, this safeguard failed Mr. Bones. He is not the first rescue dog to be euthanised without a rescue's knowledge or consent — and heartbreakingly, he won’t be the last unless change is made.

After Mr. Bones was diagnosed with a suspected bone infection caused by pins and a plate from prior surgery, Paws on Hearts offered to cover surgery costs, take him back into their care, and sought a second opinion from an impartial vet. Their requests were ignored.

As someone with experience managing complex orthopedic surgeries in Podencos, I find this particularly heartbreaking. In all my years, I have never encountered a case of a bone infection from such procedures. While irritation from plates or pins can occur, careful monitoring and timely removal have always prevented such issues from escalating.

This tragedy raises questions about the care provided and whether Mr. Bones could have been given a chance at recovery. His story reminds us of the critical need for vigilance, expertise, and compassion when managing the health of these beautiful and resilient dogs.

With a total refusal from the adopter and the veterinary clinic the rescue was left with no other option but to take costly legal action. Despite a High Court injunction granted on Friday, 15th November, allowing for this second opinion, it was too late Mr. Bones was euthanised eight minutes after midnight.

The family failed to inform the rescue or the legal team until 16 hours later, by which point Mr. Bones had already been cremated, eliminating the possibility of an autopsy. To add further frustration, the vet who euthanised Mr. Bones has since claimed full support from the RCVS, VDS, RSPCA, and the police—a puzzling statement to make before any formal investigations are conducted.

Mr. Bones’s death is a devastating loss, but it also highlights a critical issue in rescue protocols and legislation. The fact that the High Court ruled there was an arguable case for breach of contract and granted an injunction sets a precedent for future cases. This could be the beginning of much-needed change to protect rescue dogs and uphold the agreements that keep them safe.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the team at Paws on Hearts for fighting so hard for Mr. Bones. You went above and beyond to save him, and his death must not be in vain. Now is the time for overseas rescues rehoming to the UK, and UK-based rescues alike, to unite and push for changes in legislation to prevent this from ever happening again.

Rest in peace, beautiful Mr. Bones. Your story will inspire the fight for justice and protection for others like you.