A one-year-old dog named Alice is facing euthanasia at a Florida animal care facility after exhibiting what advocates say was “normal frustration” from prolonged confinement in clinic isolation.
Alice arrived at Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control on June 10 as a stray. She was spayed shortly after intake, then treated for kennel cough, which required ten days of isolation in a clinic cage. On July 7, having just completed her medical treatment, Alice was allowed outside for a brief walk. According to the shelter, she became overstimulated and began “jumping and mouthing” staff, behavior that led to her being designated unadoptable.
No injuries were reported in the incident. One staff member noted that while Alice attempted to bite during the outburst, she did not break the skin. The same dog later showed no adverse behavior when handled by a different staff member.
Volunteers familiar with Alice describe her as friendly, affectionate, and playful. “She has very nice play manners and loves playing ball,” one volunteer wrote. “She wants to cuddle and allows pets all over. She listens to corrections and knows how to sit for treats.”
Despite these positive notes, Alice was officially removed from the adoption program and placed on an urgent rescue list. Her deadline is Thursday, July 10 at 6:00 p.m. If no foster, adopter, or rescue organization steps forward by then, she will be euthanized.
Alice is located at Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control in West Palm Beach, Florida. She is spayed, vaccinated, heartworm-negative, and, according to rescue advocates, in need of a calm home environment to decompress.
Animal welfare advocates are calling attention to the pressures shelter dogs face when isolated, overstimulated, or misunderstood, especially those like Alice, who are young, energetic, and not suited for long-term confinement.
Those interested in fostering or adopting Alice can reach out to local rescues or directly to Palm Beach County ACC.
