Two cat owners claim their animals were euthanized unnecessarily by the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter within hours of intake.

Tate Simmons and Scott Craig say their cats, Spirit and Toast, were both picked up near their properties.

The pet owners say no effort was made to contact them.

They claim the animals were never taken to the shelter. Instead, they were brought to a vet where they were euthanized the same day.

Town of Hempstead Spokesperson Greg Blower wrote in a statement,

“Unfortunately, there are times when an animal is past the point of medical intervention, and the licensed Veterinarians have to make a compassionate decision. In the cases mentioned, a veterinarian, and in the second case, two veterinarians, hesitatingly had to make the respectful and humane decision in the best interest of the animal.”