Denton, TX – Outrage is growing as people learn what happened to an elderly dog named Gunner who wandered away from his family’s rural property in Denton County. Gunner, a 13-year-old Labrador retriever, was picked up on Sept. 3 and taken to the City of Denton Animal Shelter. His owner, John Gilcrease, learned that Gunner had been taken to the shelter and his wife immediately called to make arrangements to bring Gunner home.

But the shelter was closed to the public on Wednesday and when John’s wife called the facility, she was told, “We have Gunner. Gunner’s here. You are free to pick him up on Thursday at 10 o’clock.”

Gilcrease arrived at the shelter on Thursday to get Gunner, but a happy reunion did not happen. Instead, he was told that Gunner had been euthanized – before his stray hold was up.

The shelter claims that staff chose to put Gunner down because he was arthritic and had no bowel or bladder control.

Gunner’s owner acknowledges the dog’s age-related arthritis but says if Gunner had an accident at the shelter, it was likely because he was terrified.

Gilcrease was shown a red bag with his dog’s body inside and told that he could take him home.

Now the heartbroken family wants change.

Gilcrease tells Fox News:

“I want change. I want laws to be followed. I want ordinances to be followed, but here’s the situation: they are not.” City leaders will be addressing the situation at a city council meeting this week.

We appreciate your support and thank you for reading! Please comment, like and share this article to spread the love.

Help Put Animal Abusers Away! Sign A Petition To Fight For Animal Justice.

National Animal News Official Merchandise