Española Humane faces backlash after employees post disturbing video

ESPAÑOLA, N.M. – A disturbing video had the Española Humane apologizing after a group of former employees were caught laughing, and making racially insensitive jokes over a decapitated dog.

This was all caught on video after the dog was euthanized at the clinic. Española Humane fired all of the individuals involved.

In the video, one employee can be heard saying, “That’s good meat!” Another employee responds, saying they should take it to a local restaurant.

The 20-second video was also posted on a local Facebook page and was taken down.

It didn’t take long for Española Humane to act. They posted a public apology to the community and said they terminated all the employees involved.

The letter said in part, “We are deeply saddened and profoundly sorry for the recent incident that occurred at our shelter.”

The executive director of Española Humane also said they have “initiated a comprehensive internal review to make sure their policies and practices reflect the utmost respect for animals at all stages of their lives.”

KOB 4 reached out to them for an interview, but they declined and referred to the letter. It also addressed why the dog was decapitated. 

According to the letter, it was humanely euthanized. Per state guidelines, the head of the dog was “removed and sent to the state lab for testing” because it had rabies and was exhibiting symptoms.

The full letter can be found on their website.