About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for.

Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC so-called “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are, unfortunately, also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and sloppy record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Roulette [14361]: 9 years old; killed October 5. Roulette was adopted from ACC and returned about a week before he was killed.

A silent kill, Roulette wasn’t listed again for foster or adoption.

Because his records were removed, we don’t know anything about him except that he allowed all handling and was suitable for adopters with little experience.

Lawrence [262856]: 4 years old; killed October 5. Lawrence was left by his owner at the police station because the owner was moving and couldn’t take him with him. The owner didn’t leave any information about their dog.

A volunteer wrote, “Lawrence looks a bit shell shocked. I think it’s a combination of his icy blue eyes, and the new circumstances he finds himself in … Lawrence has not gotten a chance to relax and come out of his shell. He has been pretty shut down and doesn’t initiate social contact very much. He has been perfectly polite, but his body language is tense, and no wiggles or wags are to be found right now.“

Lawrence remained nervous, but the video above shows he needed and appreciated human contact.

ACC killed Lawrence on day 48.

River [236110]: 1 year old; killed October 6. River had been in and out of ACC since October 2025. The first time, his family included two kids, with whom he was friendly and playful. The second time he lived happily with four kids, two dogs, and a cat. (Although he mostly hid from the cat.) At ACC, as in his homes, he was much loved.

A volunteer wrote, “River is the social butterfly of QACC and we can’t believe this extrovert hasn’t been scooped up yet! River is used as a playgroup helper dog … The icing on the cake is how incredibly beautiful River is. And though he’s a BIG boy, he fancies himself as a lap dog, often climbing into ours and even sneaking a few kisses here and there. When he isn’t doing that, River can be found playing or zooming about the yard with his toys, moves that are guaranteed to make you laugh.”

In River’s “at-risk” memo, ACC’s stated reason for killing, they admitted River was highly social, loved people, and was a ”Playgroup Rockstar.” So why did they kill him?

They wrote, “Unfortunately, River is having a difficult time coping with the Care Center environment. He has become increasingly aroused and is frequently grabbing and biting the leash during walks and handling.“

In the last three weeks of his life, ACC made notes on him on six different days. On three occasions, they mentioned leash biting. Once, they noted he jumped up to grab the leash and began to tug at it when exiting the kennel. Most people would consider that an invitation to play. He was bored in his cage, not enough playgroups, exercises or games for an active puppy.

On a different day, they say he attempted to leash bite while on a walk but was easily redirected. In mid-September when he was leash biting on exit from the kennel, the handler shortened the leash and River caught their hand, no blood drawn. It doesn’t take much to get a good dog killed at ACC.

ACC exterminated River on day 124.

Jollof [249778]: 1 year old; killed October 6. Jollof first came to ACC a stray puppy with a big scar along his back. A volunteer wrote, “We met Jollof in April of this year and were elated when he was adopted back then. We were equally as disappointed in seeing him back in the shelter, right back in the same place he was just five months earlier, the only difference is he’s less of a baby and put on a few extra pounds!

“He’s still all about the TOYS! Thankfully, we have plenty to present to him and he is happy with each and every one. It’s the simplest things that offer these dogs the most pleasure and sometimes it’s a good reminder of why we are there. To give them a break from their kennel (in Jollof’s case a very small kennel in a room that wasn’t meant to house dogs!) and allow them to relax for a few minutes. Jollof alternates between running about the yard with his treasures and soliciting petting and attention from us … he’s the sweetest little man around.”

His adopters said he was very affectionate. On his second intake, ACC said Jollof was “loose and wiggly with staff. He was very sweet and excited, allowed all handling.”

Jollof’s at-risk memo cited his resource-guarding of toys and food. An insecure stray puppy, he did guard his food. When adopted, he bit someone who took his food away from him. He also didn’t like the big fake hand touching his toys in ACC’s bogus “behavior assessment.” That was held against him. He seemed to love toys even more than treats. ACC said he was slow to trade a toy for treats. Another strike against him.

As if they needed another excuse, ACC said Jollof showed “signs of deterioration — spinning both in and out of kennel.” Spinning in confinement, oh my. They added, “Outside of situations involving resources he considers high value, Jollof has been highly social and affiliative with staff.”

Jollof also did well greeting and playing with other dogs and participated in training sessions, making progress on his resource guarding.

Still, ACC killed young Jollof on day 31.

Billy the Bandit [264364]: 2 years old; killed October 7. A volunteer said, “Billy the Bandit is with us because of the very upsetting ‘no pet policy.’ He is said to be a timid cat with strangers and kids, a great companion to other cats and dogs and a very friendly and affectionate (although fearful at times) pet to his family. At the care center, Billy the Bandit has not yet come out of his shell.”

Because Billy the Bandit was a silent kill, we dont have access to his records to know when he arrived at ACC or why they killed him.

Gray [258862]: 3 years old; killed October 7. Beautiful Gray was at ACC twice in two and a half months, same owner. The first time he was very scared, but played with toys when alone in his kennel.

He was darted by the police. Stories vary about whether the owner had the police come to their home and cart him away or he was found stray. Whatever happened, the owner left no notes about Gray and he wasn’t reclaimed until three weeks later when Gray was put on kill command — the final step before extermination — the first time.

The second time at ACC, Gray was terrified and had a painful chronic ear infection. He seemed to be afraid of people.

ACC didn’t appear to do anything to help him. They killed Gray on day 19.

Leapfrog [262628]: 7 years old; killed October 7. Leapfrog was abandoned in an apartment for two weeks with two dogs. Police came due to the persistent barking. What took them so long?

One of his housemates, Double Dutch, a 55-pound dog, was found in a small crate, confined there the whole time. ACC killed Double Dutch on day 10 for leash biting. The other dog, Hopscotch, was fortunate. He got adopted.

Leapfrog was, of course, absolutely terrified. Despite his fear, a volunteer wrote, “When I met him, I smiled at him the whole time. His misshapen head and innocent eyes make him appear much younger than his estimated 7 years. I knew nothing of his story, only the marvelously adorable creature standing before me. Maybe feeling under the weather or maybe how he is, he spent the entirety of our time together pressing his head into our laps and cheeks into our palms. He ate a bit and accepted all our compliments graciously.”

Leapfrog, like so many dogs there, was given very high doses of three human-grade sedatives, ACC’s substitute for care. He had diarrhea and was hyper-salivating, common side effects that not only made his time there miserable but were just one more excuse for ACC to kill him, which they did on day 66.

Angelo [266664]: 3 years old; killed October 7. Angelo, a stray, came in friendly and remained so. He loved people, eager for their attention. We know very little about him; ACC’s notes were all about Angelo’s leash biting.

Advocates questioned ACC’s use of the flirt pole (as seen in video above) for a dog ACC said has a leash/object fixation. If that’s behavior training, it looks random and likely to get a dog chasing.

After loading him with compliance cocktail sedatives, ACC killed Angelo on day 11.

Circus [266249]: 10 weeks old; killed October 8. A silent kill, we don’t know when Circus arrived or why ACC killed him.

A volunteer said he was there for three weeks (almost a third of his life), was neutered despite a lingering UTI, and never listed for foster or adoption.

That would mean Circus was both a spay-neuter-kill and silent kill victim, a twofer for the sadistic killers who serve on head ACC vet Robin Brennen’s puppy/kitten death squad.

Bello [255989]: killed October 8. Bello was beloved by volunteers and staff. He came in with a severe hemorrhage on his eye, bruising and trauma to his head, face, and inside his mouth. Obviously beaten, he was also underweight.

A volunteer wrote, “I recently discovered something truly adorable about Bello — he’s a hugger! I found this out on a recent walk when I stopped to chat with a staff member. A few minutes into our conversation, Bello, who’d been politely standing at my side, gently stood up, rested his paws on my arms & looked up with the softest, mushiest face and the biggest soulful eyes. As I began slowly rubbing his cheeks and chin, he leaned into me with a dreamy, blissful expression. And as I gently pet along his back, he snuggled his head into the crook of my arm. At that point, my heart went on full meltdown.

“Later, I couldn’t resist stopping for another cuddle session; and Bello was more than happy to lean back in and soak up all the affection I showered on him. Considering what sounds like a harrowing past, it’s amazing how quickly Bello has warmed up and felt trustful enough to solicit attention and initiate hugs.

“I honestly don’t think it’s possible to meet Bello and not fall in love with him. He’s so sweet, gentle, and affectionate; and has a way of making you feel that the very best part of his day is being with you.”

A staff member wrote that Bello was sweet and gentle, “enjoys affection, takes treats nicely, and has a special way of making connections with the humans around him.”

A few days after intake, ACC wrote that Bello, despite his pain and fear, came to the front of his kennel with his tail wagging. He flinched when being leashed but quickly recovered. After hearing a shouting conversation outside the yard, he pressed himself into the handler’s lap, folding his body between their legs for reassurance.

ACC declared that in those first weeks Bello’s “neurologic status remained appropriate and ocular/facial abnormalities progressively improved and were documented as resolved by 6/17/26.” Odd then, that on June 22, they noted that Bello was wobbly when walking and fell to the floor. The video above was taken at about this time.

On September 22, ACC wrote that while on a walk Bello was shaking his head and fell, hitting his head on the ground. He was wobbly (ataxia), his eyes were rapidly shifting (horizontal nystagmus) and he was vomiting. They wrote that it was unclear whether this had started before or after he fell and hit his head or whether these symptoms were related to the head injuries he suffered in June. The next day they reported that his head was tilting and they advised Bello be placed on the so-called “at-risk” list “due to persistent vestibular/neurologic signs,” but that he could be removed from at-risk if his symptoms resolved. If a foster and rescue organization pulled him from ACC, they “recommend further diagnostic evaluation which may include sedated aural exam, advanced imaging (CT/MRI) and/or neurology consultation.”

In other words, ACC planned to kill Bello if they couldn’t find someone else to get him the medical care he needed.

Over the next few days Bella’s ataxia and head tilting persisted, but he was reported to be comfortable and eating well. They gave Bello a kill command on October 6 and killed him two days later. Bello had been at ACC 130 days.

As reported by The Scoop New York, an outpouring of grief ensued.

One advocate wrote, “The photo of his black eye from past abuse is forever burned in my mind … No one was ever charged … We look past the perpetrators and punish the victim.”

Another wrote, “This dog was exceptional. Forgiving, joyous and happy to finally be safe in the facility that ultimately neglected then killed him. No flagged behavior issues, in fact the opposite.”

As many pointed out, ACC could well afford to get this exceptional pup the medical care he needed.

In Bello’s video, volunteers wrote, “He was the best part of our day.”

“Oakley Kazooie” aka Uzi [266018]: 2 years old; killed October 8. Oakley Kazooie, whose name was really Uzi, was surrendered by his owner after living with them for two years because he didn’t do well in crates and was too aggressive when they tried to put him in one. They didn’t specify in what way agressive; they told ACC that he was friendly and affectionate, had lots of energy and loved toys and taking walks.

At ACC, Oakley panicked, thrashing when he had to go in his kennel after the brief walk around the block they give dogs daily. Four days after his arrival, ACC made Oakley a prisoner in his kennel, never letting him out. Their last note on him showed that they tossed treats in his cell and sprayed cheese on the bars. He came forward, gave a small wag and then timidly retreated to the back of the kennel.

Oakley Kazooie spent two weeks confined to his cage and was killed on day 18.

Excalibur [263733]: 5 years old; killed October 8. Excalibur, a stray, came to ACC wagging. At first he was very scared of the dogs there, screeching in terror. But with time he relaxed, walked by the dogs in their crates with no problem, and was easily redirected on street.

Just watch his video above, Excalibur was one sweet dog, social with people, eager to show off his commands, and possessed of an unusually endearing and expressive face.

They gave Excalibur a romantic name, but in the end ACC didn’t live up to its promise of care.

ACC is no Camelot; they killed Excalibur on day 43.

Sabrina [267150]: 2 years old; killed October 9. An emaciated stray, Sabrina was kill listed for medical reasons. She had an injury to her kidney, kidney failure, and severe anemia. Her medical status improved during her time at ACC, though they said she would still would require hospitalization.

Initially slightly fearful, Sabrina grew more relaxed and started purring and leaning in for petting. Soon she was head-butting and kneading and happy to be picked up and held in someone’s arms.

ACC killed Sabrina on day seven.

Shmokey-Grey [264173]: 2 years old; killed October 9. Shmokey-Grey, a stray, came to ACC a friendly pup and stayed so — always easily leashed, wiggly, and seeking attention. He also did well in doggie playgroup.

In his video, he seems exuberant and also hopped up on drugs, which ACC dispenses like the real-life Dr. Nick. They call it the “happy cocktail,” another “Fuck you” from ACC to its charges and New Yorkers as well.

A playful pup who liked to give paw, ACC killed Shmokey-Grey on day 39 for persistent mounting, behavior that is often caused by stress and anxiety, as common at ACC as Trazodone.

Zucchini [264880]: 2 years old; killed October 9. Stray Zucchini was at first shut down. He remained fearful, startled by noises and hiding behind handlers when strangers were nearby.

Cooperative, he allowed leashing and would sit quietly beside the handler in the play yard, occasionally leaning in for pets. For the most part, he remained timid and shy. Give him a ball in the play yard and he would light up, playing like the happy puppy he should have been.

ACC killed Zucchini on day 30.

Mumbo Jumbo [266967]: 5 years old; killed October 9. Mumbo Jumbo was a shy stray, found in a park. On his first day there, he did okay, although he didn’t want to return to his kennel. On day two, he was easily leashed, didn’t react to other dogs or people on walks.

He was tense, ACC noted, with wide eyes and visible forehead wrinkles. Day four, they said that during his walk he had a timid body, although the more he walked the looser he became. On day five he was still described as timid, although he balked at returning to his kennel.

Day six, his world fell apart. He was tense and whale-eyed during his walk, and for the first time bit the leash. Later, he growled and snapped, jumping up at the leash, eventually snarling and baring his teeth.

They had put Mumbo Jumbo on a high dose of Trazodone on intake, which can have a paradoxical effect, causing a dog to become more agitated or aggressive. That’s possibly what happened that day. It certainly seemed out of character.

Didn’t matter. Mumbo Jumbo was made TDO — thrown in the the hole — never allowed out of his kennel again, not for walks or potty breaks.

ACC killed Mumbo Jumbo on day nine.

Shale [265771]: 6 years old; killed October 10. Shale, a stray, arrived at ACC scared and in heat. ACC said she was easily leashed, loose and wiggly, and also that she was tense and anxious, panting and vocalizing, biting the leash.

It’s possible to be all those things, of course, especially when hormones are surging during heat. Not sure why you’d put a dog in a curly blonde wig as seen in video above, but she was a good sport.

Shale was killed on day 23, a silent kill, never put on the at-risk list for networkers to try to find a home and save her.

Shale was the third dog in heat we know of killed by ACC in the last three weeks.

Which is just how Mayor Mamdani and Speaker Menin want it.

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NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for.

Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC so-called “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are, unfortunately, also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and sloppy record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Sirius [263434]: 2 years old; killed September 27. Sirius, three other dogs, and a cat were found in a home with their deceased owner.

Weighing just 32 pounds, Sirius was severely emaciated, with a body score of 1/9. He had wounds on his muzzle consistent with reports that one of the dogs tried to chew through the door.

A volunteer wrote, “Sirius seems to have received the brunt of the neglect as he arrived extremely emaciated with his spine and ribs poking through and old scarring on his muzzle. He has been housed in the medical wing to receive extra attention and multiple feedings throughout the day. There, he’s put on some weight and started to fill out a bit. He has been social with medical staff but at times becomes overaroused and will bite the leash upon leaving the kennel and returning. With us, he stays focused on treats (to no one’s surprise) as we get him out to the play yard. He’s sweet and calm and grateful for a break from his kennel and some extra food.”

In the month Sirius was at ACC, he put on 12 pounds. ACC killed Sirius on day 34 for biting and pulling on the leash in his kennel.

The cat, Tommie, and the other dogs — Cosmo, Vega, and Atlas — are at ACC. Year-old Atlas was given a kill command on October 6.

Victor [265921]: 2 years old; killed September 28. Victor, a stray, was at ACC only four days when they put him on the “at-risk” of euthanasia list. They did so based solely on the chaos that occurred on the day of his intake. On that day, 45-pound, 2-year-old Victor arrived with a bungee cord as a leash. The handler then put a second leash on him, at which point he began jumping up high and biting the leash. ACC called in a K9 “behavior” handler who lassoed Victor with a third leash and both handlers start to walk him in.

ACC wrote, “As he moves around, the leashes on him become tangled; Victor leash bites again on all three leashes.” Another K9 handler came over with yet another leash. Note that what they call a leash is really a rope. After the fourth leash is on him, ACC said, “Victor begins to growl, even as he still holds on to the other leashes; the first handler tosses treats onto Victor, and he stops leash biting.” As they walk him to his kennel, Victor is no longer leash biting and they muscle him in. ACC wrote, “As all 4 leashes on him are very tangled, the 1st handler uses a hook to remove them. Once the 3 slip leads are off him, another pair of K9 handlers close the kennel door, cut the available length of the bungee cord, and remove the rest of the leash with a hook.” In other words, a scary, chaotic and not atypical introduction to ACC for Victor.

The next day ACC took Victor for his medical exam, where they reported he had a loose body and wasn’t biting the leash. He did have significant dermatitis and a dry, brittle, patchy haircoat, requiring treatment.

The following day they “were able to double leash Victor without issue and bring him into the pharmacy for treatments. Victor’s tail was wagging and had a very relaxed and wiggly body. He allowed VS [veterinary services] to apply duoxo mousse throughout his entire body. Towards the end when he was waiting for his kennel to be ready, he bit the leash once but was easily redirected with treats. He was returned to his kennel without issue.” While the contemporaneous notes show that he bit the leash once, his at-risk memo — ACC’s excuse for killing him — says, “Victor did well receiving medical treatment for his dermatitis. He repeated the leash biting behavior once treatment was complete.” According to their own notes, he did not repeat the leash biting behavior of the first day.

That’s it. That’s all the notes they made. On intake, Victor was scared and tangled in four leashes. ACC’s own incompetence was their excuse for killing him. In the following days Victor was very relaxed and wagging his tail. His video above shows a friendly, possibly bewildered dog, double leashed for no reason. Another video of Victor enjoying butt rubs ends with a handler saying, “He’s so cute. Good boy.”

ACC killed Victor on day 10.

Ethan [263386]: 3 years old; killed September 28. Found stray in Central Park by park rangers, Ethan and the dog he was found with, Tenzin, got in a fight over food after Tenzin tried to eat from underweight Ethan’s bowl. When someone tried to separate them, that person got bitten on the arm. It’s not known which dog it was.

Ethan had a lame front leg, bite wounds, and demodicosis, a painful inflammatory skin condition caused by mites. As you can see in his video, all that wear and tear made him look older than his age.

At ACC, Ethan was wiggly and wagging, easily leashed, did well on walks, liked sitting on laps, and also playing fetch. A volunteer wrote that Ethan loved “snuggles, endless belly rubs, and just chilling by your side, Ethan (3yo) might be your perfect lazy Sunday sidekick. I got to hang out with Ethan in the backyard, and he was such a chill, sweet boy. He happily played with stuffed toys by himself, melted his whole body into the ground for pets, and was perfectly content just soaking up belly rubs and lounging quietly beside us.”

ACC killed Ethan on day 35.

Cannoli [264999]: 2 years old; killed September 28. “Cannoli came to us after sitting alone in a hallway for days,” wrote a volunteer. “He didn’t move much but I imagine he hoped someone would notice him waiting as he was in need of some help. Now that his life has a bit more stability, Cannoli has been trying to come out of his shell and introduce us to the cat he is and wants to be. With his instant hellos and good hearted nuzzles, Cannoli tries to make friends as best he can given the circumstances. When I met Cannoli, he wasn’t feeling his best, but he still seems to enjoy the pets and cuddles that come on his terms.“

Cannoli, a 15-pound male, was at ACC for over two weeks. Yet for reasons unknown they killed him without putting him on their at-risk list, making Caccoli another ACC silent kill victim.

Tommy [264135]: 10 years old; killed September 30. When Tommy was surrendered to ACC, he greeted staff with a loose and wiggly body. The second time they approached him, he growled. Perhaps he sensed what was about to happen.

Tommy’s owner said that he was very active and friendly; “My dog is the best!” Nervous at first, Tommy quickly warmed up. He leaned in for pets and tried to greet familiar handlers by licking their faces. Easily leashed, he did well on walks, stayed by the handler’s side, ignored passersby and dogs.

Tommy’s “at risk” notes cited the fact that he “failed” the fake hand test, an arbitrary and widely-discredited practice ACC uses to single dogs out for elective killing. Given a toy, Tommy became tense and hovered over it while growling. He was resource guarding, a not-uncommon trait, especially by dogs under stress.

Then, ACC wrote, “as the assess-a-hand gets closer Tommy begins growling louder, baring teeth, snarling, lunges, and charges towards the handler.“ He was very afraid of the big fake hand looming toward him. Never mind that with real hands attached to real people he never behaved in that manner.

ACC killed Tommy on day 30.

Butter [261253]: 3 years old; killed September 30. Known as a sweet and affectionate girl, Butter went on trial adoption. We don’t know why she was returned days later and, like “Proximity” in August, killed without being relisted for foster or adoption, making her another ACC silent kill victim.

Judging by the volunteers, Butter was a happy, easy-going pup. One wrote, “Butter was found tied to a pole and stayed with the good Samaritans who found her for a few days. This is how we know she loves car rides and being close to people, though this last part she seems determined to explain herself to anyone and everyone. Hopping up behind me and tucking herself into my shoulder, Butter immediately embraced me as a friend.”

Another volunteer who took her out on a day break wrote, “Butter was my first dog to do this with and she did not disappoint! She was slightly reserved at first but I was really surprised how quickly she opened up to me given we were strangers. Before you knew it, she was making out with me.

​“She walks amazing on leash with only the occasional mild pulling and at a very mellow pace. Her priority is getting all the sniffs in. She wasn’t reactive to any people, kids, dogs, small animals, bikes or skateboards. She seemed to like the water although I wasn’t able to let her do a full swim. We finished our day at Petco where she met lots of people and loved soaking up the attention. When it was time to say goodbye, she was incredibly affectionate showing me that I gained a friend in only a few hours.“

ACC killed Butter day 61.

King Biscuit [246168]: 2 years old; killed October 1. Surrendered by his owner, King Biscuit had many friends at ACC, and one very good friend who spent a lot of time with him. They tell his story best, writing, “Some dogs are all about wiggles and snuggles, but some are fearful and reserved. King Biscuit is one of those dogs who keeps himself low profile — shy, introverted, yet so gentle and sweet, quietly waiting for his turn. Being an introvert myself, I always feel an extra urge to help dogs like him. And this is how the journey of two introverts started.

“When I first met King on Aug. 1st, he was pretty fearful. Wouldn’t take treats, just sitting next to staff like a stone. But he wasn’t showing fearful aggression. It felt like he had built a high wall around himself, trying to feel safe inside his own little box. Over time, I kept spending time with him, hoping he would slowly feel safer.

“And he has improved SO much.

“Now he takes treats gently, leans his head/hip against me for pets, and yesterday, for the first time, he put his paws on my lap asking for affection. That was a big moment for us. I was so happy seeing him finally comfortable enough to make that choice on his own.

“King also walks nicely on leash with very little pulling. He may pause to watch a nearby dog, but usually stays calm around people and dogs. He also passes many kennels on his way outside without reacting.

“Despite all his progress, King is now AT RISK. In his previous home, King lived with 3 dogs. According to his owner, King got into two fights with his father after the other dog attempted to be “dominant.” When the owner intervened with a stick, King redirected onto the stick and then snapped toward the owner. Because of this history, King urgently needs placement.

“King may not immediately run up asking for love. He needs time. But once he starts trusting you, those little moments feel so much bigger. I really hope someone gives this quiet, gentle boy the chance he deserves.”

King did not get that chance. He came to ACC underweight, was put on Trazodone, and vomited twice in his first week there — a common side effect of the sedative. He had diarrhea the day before they neutered him, even though they know he could be killed. Like so many dogs there, he also caught CIRDC and continued to have bouts of vomiting and diarrhea.

ACC killed King Biscuit on day 79.

Okapi [264960]: 2 years old; killed October 1. Okapi spent a week with the person who found her. They said she was affectionate and playful, comfortable meeting new people. On intake, she was friendly and tried to lick faces. She was also in heat, which makes it impossible to judge a dog’s behavior, as hormonal surges can cause dogs to become more anxious or agitated. But judge ACC did.

On her second day at ACC, in a kennel surrounded by dogs, she became fearful, trembling and not wanting to leave the kennel. They used a hook to place the leash, which caused her to growl and bite at the hook. Once she was leashed she exited easily and was social with handlers. After that day, she was leashed with ease, wiggly, wagging and attention-seeking with handlers, but would thrash and bite the leash upon returning to her kennel.

ACC killed Okapi on day 15 for “behavior,” specifically for growling and biting the hook on her second day there and not wanting to be returned to the kennel, where she was likely surrounded by dogs who had not been neutered.

Alphonse [261594]: 5 years old; killed October 1. Alphonse’s human died. He and his housemate, Edward, were darted by the police in their home and brought to ACC. Edward was also given a kill command but was fortunate to be rescued.

Alphonse, underweight with scars on his head and limbs, kept a cautious low profile. He was easy to take out of the kennel, walked with a loose leash by the handler’s side. He was a quiet pup with sad soulful eyes as you can see in his video.

ACC killed Alphonse on day 60.

Onyx [266200]: age unknown; killed early October. Onyx was found on September 22. He was never listed for foster or adoption, a silent kill.

Hercules [265184]: 5 years old; killed October 2. Hercules, a 105-pound gentle giant, would roll over for belly rubs within minutes of meeting a new person.

He was adopted, but soon after, according to ACC, became extremely ill with a grave prognosis.

Returned to the kill pound, Hercules was exterminated on day 20.

Gronk [263937]: 9 years old; killed October 2. Gronk, a senior pup, was surrendered by his owner.

He was available for foster or adoption, with a note that he had medical needs to be discussed with applicants.

ACC then killed Gronk, on day 11, with no warning and no stated excuse.

Eddie [229374]: 1 year old; killed October 2. Eddie was adopted from ACC at five months old.

His owner said Eddie was a sweet dog who loved people, was very active and playful. They also warned ACC that Eddie lunged to initiate play.

And he so wanted to play. Eddie loved alligator toys. Unfortunately, in addition to fear and illness, a puppy’s enthusiasm for life is also a death sentence at the “shelter.”

After dosing him with human-grade sedatives, ACC killed Eddie on day 21 for the crime of being a puppy who wanted to play.

Bleu [266212]: 3 years old; killed October 2. Friendly and playful Bleu had been with her family since she was eight weeks old.

On intake at ACC she was bewildered and very scared. She really didn’t like being lassoed by the rope they call a leash. Wonder why?

ACC made no notes on Bleu after her second day there. She was big and scared so, having no capacity to offer actual care, ACC ignored her before killing a gorgeous dog as quickly as they could.

ACC exterminated Bleu on day 10.

Polo [259203]: 2 years old; killed October 2. Polo and his friend Marco (a girl) were found loose in an apartment building. Marco was the one ACC considered scared and shy. Polo was “very friendly, outgoing and easy to handle,” said a volunteer.

“I swear Polo’s head makes up at least half of his 52 pounds,” the volunteer wrote. “He has that comically large noggin with as equally as big smile, one that I simply can’t resist! I have spent a lot of time with Polo in the almost three months he’s been with us and he has been consistently sweet and playful. He particularly loves to work for a treat (sit, give paw, whatever you ask) and will engage in games of fetch or just relax in the yard. Polo has even showed me where he might have gotten his name, by getting in the pool and splashing around on hotter days! But where he really shines is on walks! He has great leash skills.”

“Struggling to acclimate” is what ACC wrote on Polo’s at-risk memo. That’s a standard excuse when the “shelter” wants to kill dogs who have long-term stays because ACC fails to place them in a loving home.

It’s also ACC’s excuse for overdosing animals with sedatives, as they did Polo before killing him on day 87.

Having killed her bonded sibling, ACC now has Marco on the “at-risk” list.

Cherry [259104]: 2 years old; killed October 2. Adopted from ACC in August, Cherry’s family lost their home. Affectionate, smart, and protective of her people, she became reactive toward dogs at ACC. Also pigeons. Apparently, a dog chasing birds is a problem beyond ACC’s ability to handle.

ACC noted that “Cherry will become frustrated and bark if not given items she thinks are toys,” and “Cherry lunged at scooter during PM walk.” In other words, she was a dog.

On September 23, just two (yes, two) days after her arrival, ACC made her TDO, transfer door only, meaning she was not allowed to leave her kennel for walks or potty breaks.

ACC also increased the sedative they were giving her, Trazodone, “to help tolerate confinement” imposed by ACC.

After dosing her with a human sleep aid and condemning her to the hole, ACC killed family pet Cherry on day 12.

Winnie [263759]: 7 years old; killed October 3. Stray Winnie arrived at ACC with a wound on her neck, which ACC performed surgery to repair.

She was a relaxed cat, purring, leaning into pets, and happy to be picked up and held.

ACC killed Winnie on day 37, with no reason provided to the New Yorkers who paid ACC personnel to care for her.

Which is just how Mayor Mamdani and Speaker Menin want it.

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NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for.

Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC so-called “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are, unfortunately, also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Bento [264339]: 2 years old; killed September 20. Found in a park, Bento stayed with the person who found him for two days. They said he was selective with people but friendly with their resident dog, although he would growl at dogs they passed on walks.

Bento didn’t do well at ACC. He was very scared, often growling and thrashing. They took only one picture (above).

Two days after Bento came to ACC, they made him TDO — transfer door only, which means he was not allowed to leave his kennel for walks or potty breaks. Isn’t that torture for a dog?

It’s probable the first time Bento was let out of his kennel after being made TDO was to walk him to the killing floor, on day 18.

Shadow [257140]: 2 years old; killed mid- to late September. Shadow was surrendered to ACC with a relapsing wound on his neck, possibly a ruptured abscess.

ACC sutured the wound and Shadow went on a trial adoption on September 10. Apparently, it didn’t work out.

Shadow was returned to ACC. Rather than relist him for adoption — rather than meet its obligation as a shelter, in other words — giving him the chance to live a long life in a loving home, ACC poisoned him until dead.

Ducky [264594]: 2 years old; “died in care” September 21. Ducky was a fearful stray cat in ACC, and soon very sick.

Three days after intake, he had a UTI. A week later they noticed he wasn’t eating and discontinued Gabapentin (a sedative routinely prescribed to humans) to “decrease food aversion.” Two days after that, ACC wrote that his UTI was now severe, and that he was emaciated.

After another two days, day 15 of Ducky’s stay at ACC, he was reportedly found dead in his cage. Whatever works.

Friday [264111]: 9 months old; killed September 22. Friday, a stray puppy, was never listed for foster or adoption, a silent kill.

ACC killed Friday on day 21. What happened during the three weeks he was there? Why does ACC think New Yorkers shouldn’t know?

Bourbon Fries [264478]: 3 years old; killed September 23. Stray Bourbon Fries was at ACC long enough to catch CIRDC but not long enough for ACC to find him a home. Easily leashed, he was friendly on intake and continued to be wiggly and wagging, happy to sit next to handlers and get body rubs.

ACC killed Bourbon Fries for “lunging at people in the hallway and while on [the] street.” They recorded this happening on two occasions while on leash.

Of course, given ACC’s track record, its definition of lunging is suspect. The reported “lunging” got Bourbon Fries dosed with the ACC compliance cocktail: human-grade sedatives Gabapentin, Trazodone and Clonidine. It also became ACC’s excuse to kill “Bourbon Fries,” one stray on a very long list of homeless animals shackled with a contemptuous handle, just for kicks.

ACC killed Bourbon Fries on day 19.

Finn [264542]: 6 years old; killed September 23. Finn, his family said, was active and affectionate, used to long walks, and scared of loud noises and strangers.

Understandably, chaos at ACC was hard for him. Easily leashed, he did well on walks. But one bad day on the street — Finn allegedly lunged and snapped at the handler’s clothes — was all it took.

ACC killed Finn on day 19.

Brucie [264071]: 8 years old; killed September 24. Brucie, a stray, sought attention from staff during intake. At first he really didn’t want to return to his kennel, but after a short time was deemed cooperative. Brucie also did well on walks, ignoring passersby and other dogs. Introduced to a dog at a gate greet, he wagged his tail.

On one occasion ACC noted that he “[refused] to walk down the right side of the street, instead he pulls to the left and constantly looks behind himself if walking in the right direction. After walking to the left corner of the street Brucie walks without issue.”

Have these people ever owned a dog?

A senior pup, Brucie didn’t get the respect one might expect from an animal shelter. ACC killed Brucie on day 25.

Kalie [262773]: 5 years old; killed September 24. Kalie lived with a family that included a young child. Her family said she was shy, social, and affectionate, friendly with all.

Kalie had hip dysplasia and arthritis that made walking painful. Her family could no longer could afford her care. ACC determined she needed an orthopedic evaluation and quickly put her on the so-called “at-risk” list. Things got worse when ACC’s ever-present unsanitary conditions caused Kalie to contract CIRDC.

Nervous at ACC, Kalie still leaned in for pets and affection. She sought comfort. Instead, ACC killed Kalie on day 22.

Patsy [266065]: 12 years old; killed on September 24. Found on September 21, Patsy, a large senior stray, was exterminated three days later.

Patsy was never offered for foster or adoption. ACC didn’t even include a photo in her lost and found record.

Hard to find your dog when the “shelter” is too lazy and/or incompetent to post a picture.

Amaru [257299]: 1 year old; killed September 25. Amaru was everything you’d want a puppy to be. And many ACC volunteers can attest to that.

“What a silly, snuggly boy!” wrote one volunteer. “It was joy to spend time with Amaru again. A fine walker in harness, he’s still the good boy who passes other dogs without issue. He’s also the sweetheart who snuggles close, his whole body wiggling with happiness.“

Another volunteer wrote, “Amaru is very enthusiastic and happy to see you at his kennel, as he loves going out for walks. Amaru is easily leashed but exits his kennel a little bit ‘hot,’ due to excitement. But the brilliant thing about this great-looking, 1 yr old, 49 lb boy with epic ears is that he calms down quickly as we walk through the neighborhood. He walks beautifully with a harness, sniffing and exploring …h e simply adores your attention and affection. He also loves to lean into you, hoping to score some pets and butt scratches.”

Taken on a “boroughbreak,” a day long outing, a volunteer said, “Amaru is friendly, curious, playful, and so ready to experience life outside the shelter. He explored Central Park, splashed through a stream, rolled around in the grass, and joined us for lunch at a restaurant where he was an absolute dream. He was calm, polite, and happy to settle beside the table.

“Amaru has plenty of energy for adventures, but once he’s had a little time to decompress, he settles beautifully. He was relaxed around dogs, kids, bikes, traffic, squirrels, and all the usual NYC chaos. He also takes treats incredibly gently and is very happy to show off his tricks for them. Now this happy little goofball needs a foster or adopter to give him a place to land.”

Adorable, beloved Amaru didn’t get a place to land. Instead, ACC killed Amaru on day 67. As one animal advocate and networker wrote, “He died for getting his endo claw caught on a sweater & panicking. He did not bite anyone. In NYC a sweater is worth more than a life.”

Carlito [259778]: 3 years old; killed September 25. Carlito, a stray, was timid amd scared.

A volunteer wrote, “I remember meeting Carlito in late July. He’s a beautiful boy, and our videos confirm that we told him so a million times. His ears are long but in his photos and videos he’s pulled them back, feeling shy and scared, so you’ll have to take my word for it. His eyes are gentle, a gorgeous amber, and he took our treats so gingerly, carefully as if it might be a trick.”

Carlito was cautious, a gentle pup with an unknown history, learning to trust hands and handlers. “While little is known about his past,” another volunteer wrote, “we know he was found with a chain leash that was used to tie him to a fence. His finder said he was friendly when they approached so they put him in their car to bring him to the shelter. He’s been too scared for a full handling assessment, tucking his tail and stepping back when approached, wary of hands moving around him.”

Where volunteers saw a sweet scared dog, what ACC saw was “kennel stress, including barking, jumping at the kennel door, launching off the kennel walls, and difficulty settling. He has also displayed leash biting when being returned to his kennel, but is able to be distracted at times.”

Carlito was a bother to ACC, where he was put to death on day 73.

Carrot Top [260379]: 2 years old; killed September 25. Carrot Top, a stray, came to ACC wiggly and seeking attention. Wiggly she remained — a social girl, much happier outside with people than in a kennel surrounded by barking dogs. When scared, she responded well to baby talk.

Carrot Top was sick at ACC, with the CIRDC all dogs get, but also with inflammation and explosive diarrhea. She was given as many sedatives as they could to make her whatever it was they wanted her to be.

As you can see in her video, Carrot Top played fetch, but as one animal advocate and networker notes, “Baby girl never quite caught the ball, but she tried so hard — little paws flying, tongue out, running like it was the best game ever. She was perfect.”

Perfect she was. ACC killed Carrot Top on day 68.

Bubbles [263053]: 10 months old; killed September 26. Almost every ACC daily note on Bubbles, a stray puppy, says he was exuberant; they often say it repeatedly in one entry. Problem is, ACC doesn’t like exuberant puppies, which they kill regularly.

Social, affectionate, eager to connect. Just 10 months old. He was also nervous there, scared. If Bubbles doesn’t seem exuberant in the video (above), it’s because ACC loaded him with sedatives.

In his “at risk” memo, ACC noted that Bubbles pulled so intensely on the “leash” that at times he “caused himself” to pass out, since after 31 years ACC hasn’t figured out how to walk a dog.

ACC killed puppy Bubbles on day 38.

Bearstein [256919]: 3 years old; killed September 26. Adored by volunteers, Bearstein was kill-listed twice and got reprieves. There would be no third stay of execution.

On Bearstein’s intake, he was shut down and scared. A volunteer wrote, “Bearstein was found tied up on the street and left there. He came into the shelter terrified — flinching, sure the next person would hurt him like the last one did. But he tried anyway. Little by little, he let them close — leaning into their legs, tail wagging, learning to trust people again. He was so close. And then he got sick, and that put him on today’s list. He did the hardest part already. He just needs someone patient enough to let him finish.“

ACC first put Bearstein on the kill list because he got pneumonia. The plucky boy survived and they took him off the list. The second time he was put on the kill list, volunteers took him out to spend the day in the park, knowing he might be killed in the next day or two.

See the video above. Bearstein was reprieved again. Why? He was a darn good dog. Even ACC had to admit that. They wrote, “Once he’s out on a walk, Bearstein is a true gentleman, strolling politely on a loose leash and taking in the world one sniff at a time.”

“A big guy with a big heart” said Bearstein’s staycation buddy. “Bearstein loves to go on long walks and sniff around the city, followed by long naps where he’ll change positions multiple times, each more adorable than the last. He loves chews and frozen Kongs, but most of all he just wants to be near you!”

A volunteer wrote, “This big brown bear of a pup is 3, 63 lbs, incredibly handsome, strong, and curious. He is often relaxed on his walks, enjoys exploring on his sniffaris and can sometimes pull hard when he feels like investigating something off the beaten path.“

Off the beaten path? ACC doesn’t like that.

The much-loved adorable Bearstein, saved from ACC by normal humans twice, was killed on day 108.

Which is just how Mayor Mamdani and Speaker Menin want it.

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We take names. We step on toes. We bring receipts.

Subscribe to The Scoop New York

NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for.

Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC so-called “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are, unfortunately, also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Sticky Keys [261073]: 2 years old; killed September 13. On intake, Sticky Keys, a stray found in the park, was trembling, but gently sniffed the open hand offered to him and moved closer to the person.

He was, a volunteer wrote, “absolutely lovely: so gentle, easy to leash and walk, and very affectionate. Just make sure that your slip lead is not too tight as he will choke, so just go slowly. Sticky Keys is the sweetest pup, even though he’s currently in ISO [isolation housing] and a bit under the weather. [He had CIRDC.] He is curious and loves to sniff on his walk, but he might also try to intimidate a pigeon who dares to cross his path. He loves treats. What a sweet soul.”

Listed as adoptable, ACC neutered Sticky Keys. In the end, he outwore his welcome. All ACC could see was that he jumped too much and once nipped a finger—no broken skin.

ACC killed Sticky Keys on day 46.

Sylvana [260951]: 2 years old; killed September 13. Sylvana, a timid stray, grew more relaxed the further away from the building she got.

With time, she became wiggly, waggy, and social as seen in her video. She wasn’t reactive to the dogs they introduced her to and did well on walks, checking in with handlers, following commands, and ignoring passersby.

In her last weeks there, they said Sylvana became dog reactive, “fixating on other dogs while growling and pulling toward them.” The report of growling happened once; most often she’d just stare at or pull toward other dogs, and often she didn’t react at all.

Of course, with no supervision from the Mamdani administration or the complicit City Council, ACC doesn’t need a legitimate reason to exterminate a perfectly adoptable dog. A growl or two will do.

Robin Brennen’s vet team put Sylvana to death on day 46.

Coco [264547]: 3 years old; killed September 13. A family dog who lived with two kids, her owner said Coco was “very active, playful, great cuddles!”

They also said she was fearful of loud noises, easily startled, and anxious when left alone. Naturally, she was overwhelmed at the shelter, freezing, flinching, and hiding at the back of her kennel.

The longer Coco was outside of her kennel, on the one walk they reported, the more relaxed she became. But they didn’t give her time.

ACC killed Coco on day nine, for the offense of being afraid in the unfamiliar, hellish environment of the city “shelter.”

Neapolitan Ice Cream Sandwich [264758]: 3 years old; killed September 13. Found on September 8, Neapolitan was listed as “no longer available” on September 11 and killed the next day, without being offering for foster or adoption, contrary to ACC’s contract with New Yorkers.

When a companion animal has never been listed, silent kills are especially egregious. We know nothing about Neapolitan other than his age and the thoughtless “name” ACC branded him with.

The “care center” didn’t even care to offer an excuse for why they exterminated this poor boy after four days.

Haley [264962]: 13 years old; killed September 13. Found September 10, Haley was never listed for foster or adoption.

Like Neapolitan, he was killed on day four.

Muneca [263255]: 6 years old; killed September 16. Muneca, admitted because her owner was no longer able to care for her, was a very affectionate and gentle 4.5-pound cat, leaning in for pets and remaining calm when held.

Believed to have hypothyroidism, ACC said she needed a follow-up with repeat bloodwork.

Muneca had a seizure while in ACC’s care. She also had old hindlimb fractures that they believed might make her prone to fractures in the future.

ACC exterminated Muneca on day four because it was easier than treating her or releasing her to people who don’t use illness as an excuse for discretionary killings of once-beloved family pets.

Mistique [264791]: age unknown; killed September 16. Found on September 8, Mistique was an older dog never listed for foster or adoption.

Team Brennen poisoned Mistique to death after eight days.

Mac [263476]: 4 years old; killed September 17. Mac was found stray with another dog. The owner, when contacted, said both dogs had been in multiple fights with each other; both had fresh wounds and older scars.

Mac (a girl) had numerous infected wounds to her face, head, neck, and front limbs. ACC flagged Mac for cruelty. She was timid at first, too scared to leave her kennel. After being there about a week, she overcame her fears, became loose and wiggly, easily leashed.

“Before I met Mac yesterday I knew just 2 things about her; that she was at risk for euthanasia and that she and her sister were covered in scars from a fight,” a volunteer wrote. “I try to go into meeting all new dogs with an open mind and no preconceived notions of who they are. I want them to tell me who they are, not notes on paper. But I admit I was still surprised by how much I loved Mac. How much she made me laugh with her flopping around and impersonating a bug on their back, wriggling with all 4 feet reaching to the sky. Mac knows a few things — like how to lay down on cue and how to put on a show for volunteers taking her photos and videos. We giggled and made heart eyes at her as she flopped back dramatically to expose her belly if we paused petting her. The scars covering her face disappeared to my eyes, and all I saw was a happy beautiful girl soaking up attention and love — things that are sparse in the shelter.”

ACC had more cruelty in store for Mac, taking his life from him on day 23.

Divinity [263987]: 5 years old; killed September 18. Some dogs don’t need words to describe who they are. Their video says it all. Divinity was one. She was a big gentle love.

ACC said she was fearful, and she was at first, but clearly a people-loving pup who just needed time to feel safe. And when that happened, she would lick your face. A stray, she pulled hard on walks and was choked into unconsciousness at least twice by incompetent ACC staff or untrained volunteers. Surely, the NYC pound can afford a harness.

ACC killed Divinity on day 20, one of seven dogs we know of whom Brennen and company put to death that day.

Honeybun [264704]: 5 years old; killed September 18. Honeybun, a stray, got no chances.

On intake, she had deep abrasions on her leg. She was scared. She was also in heat, a time when dogs can experience personality and mood changes, becoming restless, anxious, or irritable due to hormonal surges.

Surrounded by a lot of intact male dogs, Honeybun was stressed, barking, snapping, and sometimes thrashing — all behaviors that could be caused by the hormone changes. Of course, ACC loaded her with human-grade sedatives. What she needed was a human with a heart to give her time.

There being no such humans at ACC, staff killed her on day 13.

Leopard [259479]: 5 years old; killed September 18. Leopard was found walking alone, in bad condition. He had many infected bite wounds to his face, causing it to swell, and to his ear, which required stitches.

Because they determined his bite wounds to be of unknown origin, officious and lazy city health department drones subjected Leopard to a six-month quarantine, making it harder for him to find a home.

Still, Leopard was social and cooperative, working with a trainer to learn cues and to relax. On walks, he was responsive to handlers, followed commands and looked back for check-ins.

After about a month, ACC claimed Leopard was dog-reactive and increased the Trazodone he was already getting, adding Gabapentin and Clonidine to apply Dr. Brennen’s complete compliance cocktail.

His video is a delight, showing the care-free happy dog he was meant to be.

ACC killed Leopard on day 70.

Thunderbird [263913]: 3 years old; killed September 18. ACC said Thunderbird, a stray, was very fearful on intake, but cooperative, and with the help of baby talk and treats quickly warmed up to staff.

She soon became consistently social with handlers, comfortable approaching them for treats and pets. Easily leashed, on walks she ignored people and dogs passing by.

Like many timid dogs, she occasionally had the zoomies and moments of unbridled joy in the play yard, as seen in her video.

ACC killed Thunderbird on day 20.

Freddy [260389]: 3 years old; killed September 18. One week, Freddy was the ACC social media poster boy. The next week he was dead.

Freddy came to ACC after his human died. He was a highly spirited pup, social, soft, wiggly, and especially polite when treats were involved. He did well on walks, frequently checking in with his handlers.

In his “at-risk” memo — ACC’s justification for killing a dog — ACC claimed Freddy was “inconsistent in his dog reactivity.” They also said he “displayed overly-aroused, mouthy behavior toward handlers, grabbing onto handler clothing when in the play yard.” That happened once.

ACC’s response was predictable, mega-dosing him with all their favorite sedatives before adding him to the death list.

ACC killed Freddy on day 58.

Sir Ace Junior [262677]: 2 years old; killed September 18. Sir Ace Junior was hungry for love (see video), a big cuddle bug in need of a lap, missing his family.

Ace was surrendered due to a no pets policy. His people said he had lots of energy, enjoyed long walks, and loved belly rubs.

At ACC, Ace got no love. They made brief notes on him for only four of the days he was there, noting he was reactive towards other dogs.

Like most dogs who enter filthy ACC facilities, Ace caught CIRDC there.

To make amends for making him sick, ACC exterminated family pet Sir Ace Junior on day 16.

Esquites [264997]: age unknown; killed September 18. Esquites was found on September 11 and killed a week later, a silent kill.

They were never offered for foster or adoption. We don’t even know their sex, as ACC staff didn’t bother to note it on the lost and found record.

Which is just how Mayor Mamdani and Speaker Menin want it.

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We take names. We step on toes. We bring receipts.

Subscribe to The Scoop New York

NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for.

Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Dodger [261766]: 4 years old; killed September 6. The video above of Dodger is from when she arrived at ACC, a healthy family dog. The photo is of her four weeks later, sick and emaciated.

Dodger, surrendered due to landlord issues, lived with a family that included kids and other dogs. They said he was affectionate and playful. ACC noted that Dodger was very sweet and friendly on intake. Two days later, ACC reported that after being placed in a pop up crate, Dodger began growling and avoiding the leash and was unable to be removed for a walk. Later that day, a handler stopped by offering treats and baby talk. Dodger became wiggly and wagging. A day or two later, Dodger was moved to a kennel, grew more comfortable, and did well on walks as well as doggy playgroup.

A little over a week after intake, Dodger began having persistent and severe diarrhea. He was vomiting, not eating, and losing weight. He also had CIRDC. Seventeen days after intake, ACC reported that Dodger was now emaciated with marked muscle wastage and mild ataxia (loss of balance), likely due to his weak state.

ACC wrote, “Patient has been reported to not take oral medications, and he requires medical handling for injectable treatments. His behavior (growls/snapping when attempting to be leashed) makes it difficult to treat appropriately in shelter. Monitor ability to treat and QOL [quality of life] closely while in shelter.”

Did they even attempt to give Dodger shots? Their notes suggest that they considered treating a sick dog under their care to be impossible. They didn’t diagnose a cause. Instead, ACC killed Dodger on day 29.

Azriel fka Azalea [257390]: 1 year old; killed September 9. Azalea, found stray, went on a brief trial adoption and was returned with a new name, Azriel. A volunteer wrote, “Azalea is a young man found scared frozen in a park by a grood Samaritan who thought he was hurt. Thank goodness, he was not! What a cute kitty, cream and orange, shy but curious and wanting to make friends. Azalea takes a while to come out of his hiding box, his safe place, one step forward, two steps backward but in the end, the desire to be petted and loved is stronger … He is for sure a gentle cat … too adorable.”

ACC agreed he was a sweet cat, who “solicits and appreciates attention, is easy to handle and tolerates all petting. This cat is suitable for any level of adopter experience.”

Azalea was rejected by an outside vet for neuter due to a heart murmur. ACC neutered him in-house the next day. Later, they claimed Azalea’s heart murmur as the reason to place him on the at risk list and then to kill him, which Dr. Robin Brennen’s vet team did 86 days after his intake.

Sunshine [264715]: 9 years old; killed September 9. Sunshine was found on September 6 and killed three days later, a silent kill. She was never listed for foster or adoption.

Chester fka Goob [256825]: 10 months old; killed September 10. Chester, formerly known as Goob, arrived at ACC stray in mid-June. He was seven months old, an active exuberant puppy. Chester was adopted mid-August and returned after two days due to his high energy and jumping. On return, ACC added the sedatives Gabapentin and Clonidine to the Trazodone he was already being given.

ACC wrote, “Chester is a fun-loving, enthusiastic boy with a zest for life! He’s always excited to get out and explore, loves sniffing around on walks, and enjoys learning new things. He’s already practicing cues like ‘sit’ and ‘down’ and has even started clicker training, showing he’s eager to engage with his handlers — especially when treats are involved! Chester is looking for an active family who can continue building his manners while embracing his goofy, affectionate personality.”

Chester did well on walks, was responsive to handlers, would remain sitting at the handler’s feet for treats, and didn’t react to dogs or people passing by. He remained an exuberant happy puppy, although he still tended to jump socially, as puppies usually do. That’s what ACC considers a behavior problem, making a dog eligible — in their minds only — for killing.

Team Brennen killed adorable Chester 25 days after he was returned from adoption.

Axel [261356]: 3 years old; killed September 10. Axel was found tied up outside. The police described him as “friendly, outgoing, and docile.”

On intake, ACC said he was very friendly with a wagging tail, wanting to play. A volunteer wrote, “Every person stops us as we walk down the street with Axel, telling us how much they love him and how handsome he is! Our behavior team has taken to him, teaching him all kinds of skills like the 123 game and how to relax on a mat. He leans in consistently for pets and is a very social boy. In playgroup, Axel played with a female dog exuberantly and with soft body language. Axel is a lovebug, consistently leaning into whoever is near him to pet him. He is soft, playful and totally up for any adventures you want to invite him on.”

When a staff member grabbed his leash near his neck to move Axel away from another dog, Axel bit the handler’s hand, leaving no broken skin. For that one instance, they made a sweet, much loved pup “rescue only” — able to be fostered only through their New Hope partner program, which requires both a rescue organization and a foster in order to escape ACC.

ACC killed Axel on day 41.

Larry the Lobster [263341]: 2 years old; killed September 10. Larry the Lobster, a stray, was very scared, reacting to loud noises and avoiding being leashed, which at ACC often involves being lassoed with a rope leash.

The first time this happened to Larry, ACC wrote: “Handler attempts to lasso him and he flinches. Handler attempts one more time and he escalates to growling and lip curling.” Of course he did. Lassoing a scared pup is the last thing you’d do to make him feel safe.

In the quiet of the office, Larry was social, sitting next to staff and leaning in for pets, happily scampering around the room. The video above captures one of these moments, showing the joyous, beautiful pup he was.

ACC killed Larry on day 18.

Cruz [259418]: 6 years old; killed September 10. Timid on intake, fearful and avoiding people, Cruz, a stray, grew more social with time. Always gentle and cooperative, he was the kind of dog who might not get noticed despite his gorgeous face, droopy jowls, and melancholic eyes.

It requires work to find a home for a dog. Too many, like Cruz, are ignored instead. And all dogs, including Cruz, are de-listed from ACC’s website once they are given a kill command. Even before they kill them, ACC disappears them.

ACC killed Cruz on day 67, ostensibly for jumping and biting the leash.

Ford Explorer [262388]: 2 years old; killed September 10. Ford Explorer was a gentle and scared stray trying to be brave. His video shows him being brave — he ventured out of his kennel — but still scared and vigilant. His tail tucked, he trembled; he stayed close to his handler and scanned his environment in anticipation of danger.

He himself was no danger. He liked to lick hands, communicating his need, seeking assurance. That video broke hearts. It didn’t keep him alive long enough to find a home.

Ford was a beautiful and healthy young pup that ACC killed on day 29.

Cookie King [254795]: 3 years old; killed September 11. Cookie King was the King, adored by volunteers and praised by staff. He came to ACC an underweight stray and quickly won hearts. ACC extolled his “happy go lucky personality.” Volunteers echoed that sentiment, “a happy, enthusiastic, people-loving pup,” said one.

“Cookie is described as loose, wiggly, social, and eager to engage, and that’s exactly how he was when I interacted with him. He loves treats, attention, and being part of the action.” said another. “What’s a wonderful guy like this doing in a pop-up crate in the hallway when there is so much fun to be had in the world?”

“Come take him for a walk,” said yet another. “And then keep walking all the way home.”

That didn’t happen. ACC killed Cookie King on day 84. New York City animal advocates trying so hard to save Cookie King responded: killing this beloved pup on a solemn day, September 11, was particularly hurtful.

Maple [262081]: 4 years old; killed September 11. Maple, a stray found tied to a bench, was reported to be loose and wiggly on intake. A day later on medical exam they wrote she was “frozen with fear as if a human hand had never touched her.”

ACC quickly spayed her.

ACC staff wrote that Maple was “friendly, active and people-oriented … jumping up socially when excited but also has a soft side and enjoys leaning into touch.”

A volunteer said, “She’s a pint-sized pup with lots of love to share. Still shy but coming around, we had a nice walk through the park, with lots of passersby stopping to say ‘hello’.”

Three days later ACC said she was tangled in a harness in the hallway and in the chaos of the moment bit one of the three handlers surrounding her. The next day they made Maple TDO (transfer door only), which meant she could no longer leave her kennel for walks or even for potty breaks.

That decision had consequences. Ten days later, still a prisoner in her kennel, the cable of the transfer door (shuttling her between two sides of the kennel so they could clean it) broke and slammed on her tail. The distal end of her tail had to be amputated.

Dr. Brennen and company killed Maple in day 32, after the “shelter” disappeared her from the outside world, making her both a silent kill and spay-neuter-kill victim.

Odette [264278]: 10 years old; died September 11. Odette, a 13-pound stray, came to ACC so severely matted that she couldn’t see properly. ACC reported that she had trouble breathing on walks and passed out.

Suspecting pneumonia, with concerns about her heart, they put her on the “at-risk” list to find a rescue organization to take care of her and provide the medical support she needed.

According to ACC, Odette died in her kennel the next day, day 10, before they had an opportunity to exterminate her themselves.

Bubbles [264748]: age unknown; killed September 11. Bubbles was found on September 8 and killed three days later, a silent kill never listed for foster or adoption.

They never bothered to determine her age; she was described as geriatric.

Grey Girl [263610]: 7 months old; killed September 11. A silent kill, never listed for foster or adoption, Grey Girl was at ACC for at least two weeks. When she arrived and why she was killed we don’t know.

Roxie [253378]: 1 year old; killed August 12. Roxie’s family included four kids, dogs and cats. Her guardian said she was friendly and playful, anxious when left alone. At ACC, Roxie behaved as an exuberant puppy would, often jumping to greet people and pulling toward things that interested her. She rolled over for belly rubs and enjoyed pets.

ACC wrote that she was “noted to have too much energy.” Too much energy? Puppies aren’t supposed to be stuck in cages 23 1/2 hours a day, seven days per week.

From the start, Team Brennen gave Roxie Trazodone and Clonidine, which apparently didn’t slow her down to their satisfaction. So they added the third drug in the compliance cocktail: Gabapentin.

What excuse did they use to kill her? They cite a number of factors, all behaviors you might expect from a dog separated from the people she loves and stuck for almost two months in a cage. It included sensitivity to and fleeing from loud noises; stress-related behaviors such as heavy panting and licking kennel bars; hard barking and lunging at a handler on one occasion; sometimes being kennel reactive, pulling hard toward neighboring dogs in their kennels.

Citing “behavior problems” such as these, ACC asserts its right to kill just about any dog or cat it wants to. ACC exterminated Roxie on day 57.

Which is just how Mayor Mamdani and Speaker Menin want it.

Subscribe now

Share

We take names. We step on toes. We bring receipts.

Subscribe to The Scoop New York

NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for.

Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Fruit Loop [263361]: 5 months old; died at ACC, August 30. Fruit Loop was found stray, with an upper respiratory infection, dehydrated and vomiting, not eating.

ACC said he was sweet and affectionate, and allowed all medical handling.

Fruit Loop died in ACC’s “care” four days later.

Thor [263484]: 5 years old; killed August 30. Thor, a stray, was found on August 26 in poor condition.

ACC wrote that Thor had “severe and chronic bilateral ear infections, and the entire left side of his face is abscessed. We suspect the ear infection caused perforation of his ear canal and spread to the soft tissue of his face. He will need extensive medical and surgical care to provide him with a good QOL (I expect this to include bilateral TECA surgeries). As of this morning, he is not eating so we have him on injectable medications. He will need to go directly to a veterinary hospital. Behaviorally, he has tolerated all handling.”

A notice went out for a rescue organization to provide the medical care ACC wouldn’t. ACC killed Thor on day four.

Lucky Lady [258328]: 2 years old; killed August 31. Lucky Lady’s guardian went to college and their mother said her health issues prevented her from keeping her. They said she was a very affectionate playful pup, fond of belly rubs. “She loves to smile from ear to ear when she’s happy.”

Lucky had separation anxiety and the “shelter” proved difficult for her. She was social with handlers, leaning in for attention and affection, but stressed being surrounded by barking dogs.

ACC killed Lucky Lady on day 40.

Peeber Jelly [262664]: 6 years old; killed August 31. Peeber Jelly, a scared stray, got no chances. He was scared and sometimes reactive to dogs at ACC. Because he was barking and lunging at the kennel door on intake, he was immediately given a high dose of Dr. Brennen’s compliance cocktail: Trazodone, Gabapentin, and Clonidine.

Eager to get out and easily leashed, Peeber Jelly, as his video shows, was happy when he was outside, wagging his tail even when walking in the rain. What he needed was time to decompress, not drugs.

ACC killed Peeber Jelly, on day 14.

Koba [259749]: 1 year old; killed September 1. Koba, an exuberant 30-pound puppy, playful and cute, was found with Bon Bon, who was adopted from ACC.

Friendly from the start, Koba wasn’t happy being surrounded by dogs he didn’t know. He also didn’t like being housed in a top kennel and having to be picked up by strangers to leave and return to the kennel.

On walks, Koba grew more relaxed the longer he was outside and away from the dogs at ACC. A quick learner, he learned to sit patiently for treats, though as you can see in his video, his whole body would be quivering with anticipation. And Koba was always eager for human contact, especially, belly rubs.

ACC killed Koba on day 49.

Rufferee [258274]: 8 years old; killed September 1. A volunteer wrote, “Please go slow I’m an old man. That’s what Rufferee’s kennel sign reads and inside is a boy that looks older than his stated 8 years. Rufferee was found stray in a park and I think some TLC is in order to make him feel good again. But in the meantime this toy loving boy is always ready to play, his eye is always on the prize (stuffies) and he earns himself two of our best and biggest ones with his silly play style. We love his big mouth because it makes it easier to count his chiclet teeth, sparse and adorable. And he does one of my top favorite things, which is carry his toy all the way back to his kennel by himself. He is after all a grown boy!”

Rufferee, a stray, had a tough time at ACC. ACC staff didn’t take kindly to his love of toys or his love of shredding them — perfectly normal dog behavior. They blamed him for getting aroused trying to get into a toy bin as well as guarding his toys. They wrote, “Rufferee otherwise engages with staff exuberantly and has a lot of energy.”

Rufferee had CIRDC for almost a month. Shortly before he was killed, he collapsed.

From ACC: “8/21/26: On the way outside for his PM walk, Rufferee hard pulled into SDA, attempting to jump in the linen bin against the wall. In an attempt to redirect him back outside, Rufferee began to wobble, collapsing momentarily though not fully passing out. Struggling to fully stand back up after giving him a moment to recollect, the handler took him towards medical so vet staff could check him out. While the handler held onto the leash, another staff member from medical held on, straddling him gently in order for another vet to properly check his heart. Rufferee began to grow overstimulated, his body stiff and unsure. Reaching his threshold, he lunged and snapped at the staff members, though was quickly redirected with a slight stiff arm by the staff member holding onto the leash. Rufferee was brought back to his kennel without any further issue, ceasing any further examination until a later time.”

The med notes for the next day say they did a “cage-side exam.” Rufferee was in his kennel with a wagging tail, eating well with no signs of CIRDC. They wrote, “r/o [rule out] carotid sinus hypersensitivity vs vasovagal syncope vs other. Okay to monitor for now, recommend switch from neck lead to harness (if possible) if this happens again.”

Did it happen again? That was their last note before they added on Rufferee to the “at-risk” list.

ACC killed Rufferee nine days later, on day 80. Whether he was exterminated for illness, or becoming unacceptably excited for toys, or some other blatantly insane excuse, is unknown.

“Rockichan” [262655]: 2 years old; killed September 1. Known to his family as Rocky, a pup who lived happily with kids and cats, “Rockichan” was immediately punished for existing with one of ACC’s made-up nonsense words for a name.

Rocky was shy, playful, and active, his people said, accustomed to going on three or four walks a day.

At ACC Rocky was very scared and vigilant, reacting to sounds, sudden movements and other dogs. Dr. Brennens’s crew immediately put him on all three sedatives: Trazodone, Gabapentin and Clonidine.

Rocky contracted CIRDC on August 26th, and was likely still sick when Team Brennen killed him on day 15.

Boots [263161]: 3 years old; killed September 2. Boots, a stray, was killed by ACC on day 11.

On intake, ACC wrote that he was very friendly and outgoing, allowing all handling. The next day they said he growled and thrashed when they tried to examine his injured paw.

Virtually ignored during his short time there, ACC made only one “enrichment” note on him. They reported that he lunged at handlers twice that day, tried to mount, and also bit the leash.

For these crimes, Boots was exterminated shortly thereafter.

Buzz [263297]: 4 years old; killed September 2. Friendly on intake, Buzz, a stray, was afraid when being leashed. The leash ACC uses, a slip lead, is essentially a rope, giving them maximum control over a dog and enabling them to swing the leash overhead like a lasso.

On August 28, ACC made Buzz TDO (for “transfer door only”), and was not let out of his kennel for walks or potty breaks.

Buzz got incarceration, not care, before ACC killed him on day 10.

Apple Bloom [260888]: 3 years old; killed September 2. Apple Bloom’s family was evicted and she was left alone in her house for two weeks.

At ACC she was fearful but, according to a volunteer, “outside in the yard she is ready to be brave and try to make new friends. Apple Bloom eagerly takes snacks from us, and our friendship is solidified over chicken jerky. She shows off her bravery by even jumping in the pool!”

With time, Apple Bloom became more social, and got braver, even participating in doggy playgroups. Offered clicker training, she learned quickly.

ACC killed Apple Bloom on day 37.

Fairytopia [263578]: 10 months old; killed September 3. Fairytopia, a 30-pound stray puppy, had parvovirus and was given one day for a rescue organization to save her from Dr. Brennen’s death squad.

ACC wrote: “we have this poor, sweet parvo pup that was just diagnosed. She is clinical — lethargic, vomiting, anorexic, dehydrated, and broke with bloody diarrhea today. We are administering CPMA now and starting supportive care; a risk assessment will follow.”

ACC killed Fairytopia on day seven.

Taco Bell [262713]: 9 weeks old; killed September 5. Taco Bell was a silent kill; we don’t know when or how she came to ACC or why they killed her.

Mistique [262925]: 5 years old; killed September 5. Mistique did well on her first walk at ACC, checking in with her handler, accepting pets, and wagging her tail.

A week later, she had to have emergency surgery for pyometra. After, she was hooked up to an IV and had a catheter for almost a week. She wasn’t eating.

ACC made this sick, scared dog TDO — confining her to her kennel—for snapping at the air and the leash. ACC killed Mistique on day 17.

Laffy Taffy [262679]: 2 years old; killed September 5. Laffy Taffy, a stray, was scared and stressed at ACC.

A volunteer wrote, “It wasn’t that long ago when he was found stray in Brownsville by police. They kept him in the precinct for a shift where he was described as friendly and social. On intake, he was social with staff but flinched when they moved too quickly. And since then, he’s had a difficult time acclimating to the shelter environment. He was witnessed banging his water bucket around and screeching. He’s also been tense during handling. When I meet him, he’s on a walk and readily accepts treats from me, doing the cutest chomps while he eats. He is so small and cute and we even get a little head tilt out of him.”

Throwing his water bowl around his kennel was all ACC wrote about him in their notes.

ACC staff really hated this dog. Instead of giving him a day or two to find a foster, as is customary, ACC exterminated Laffy Taffy the day they issued the kill command, on day 19.

Which is just how Mayor Mamdani and Speaker Menin want it.

Share

We take names. We step on toes. We bring receipts.

Subscribe to The Scoop New York

NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for.

Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Galloway [259200]: 4 years old; killed August 23. On intake, Galloway, a stray, was friendly, wiggly and rolled over for belly rubs. But because she was reluctant to return to her kennel after her medical exam, they put her on Trazodone. Galloway remained spirited and social during her time at ACC; they said also that she was smart and did very well during training sessions.

ACC wrote in their “at-risk” memo (their excuse for killing a dog) that Galloway had been observed to hard-bark and lunge toward other dogs. Their notes contradict this was an ongoing problem. On one occasion, shortly after she arrived, they report her doing so when she’s in her crate and dogs are passing by. Every other note on her behavior, including during her walks, state that she ignored dogs and on one occasion greeted with a play bow. What’s more, as can be seen in the video above and as seen by volunteers, she was the queen of the playground, a superstar in doggy playgroup.

Living in a pop-up crate, Galloway was always eager to get out and explore. ACC reported her passing out on four different occasions from pulling on the leash. Obviously, a front-clip chest harness would have solved that problem. Instead, they let her choke to the point of passing out.

ACC killed Galloway on day 47.

Lieutenant Limeade [261298]: 3 years old; killed August 23. Lieutenant Limeade, a stray, was very scared, so scared he peed on himself. Trembling and cowering in his kennel, he would hide at the back.

On one occasion, when coming back from a walk, a barking dog startled Lieutenant Limeade and he army-crawled back into the safety of his kennel. He was timid, but brave enough to be coaxed out to go on walks, where with time, he would begin to relax, his body would loosen and sometime he would wag his tail.

The photo above is from one of those occasions. And as you can see in his video, he somehow overcame his fear to experience moments of being a very joyful pup.

ACC killed Lieutenant Limeade on day 24.

Choco Bean [256273]: 2 years old; killed August 23. Choco Bean’s owner, who had him for a year, left him with ACC because he was too “active.” A volunteer wrote, “Choco Bean has quickly become a volunteer favorite. HIs funny little face, big ears, nubby half tail and playful personality are charming beyond belief. He loves to zoom, socialize and play. Choco Bean especially loves to play with the hose — a perfect boy to adopt while it’s still summer so he can participate in your summer fun!”

At ACC he rolled over for belly rubs, leaned in for affection, and liked to snuggle. He also jumped exuberantly too often for their liking and, on occasion, would bite the leash.

Being a volunteer favorite didn’t matter to them. Biting the leash did. ACC killed Choco Bean on day 56.

Rocket [261647]: 9 years old; killed August 24. For nine years, Rocket lived with his family, which included kids, another dog, and two cats — all of whom he lived happily with. He was left with ACC because he nipped (no broken skin) when he was being crated due to a house full of visitors.

On intake, Rocket was found to be underweight with a chronic ear infection. For those trying to save dogs from ACC, his photos, many seeming to show traces of tears, were heartbreaking.

Nervous at ACC and no doubt, bewildered, he was cooperative, easily leashed, and did well on walks. He enjoyed playing fetch and chasing tennis balls.

ACC killed Rocket on day 21, not for anything he’d done there but for unwitnessed alleged behavior at his home.

Goku [257141]: 2 years old; killed August 24. Goku’s family said they had no time for their gentle pup, a softie who greeted them at the door with a toy and wiggles. He was said to be affectionate and playful at home where he lived happily with two dogs. He was anxious when left alone.

At ACC Goku was shy and fearful at first, but soon walking comfortably next to handlers and licking their hands.

Although he remained shy, on occasion his doggie spirit broke free to do zoomies under the hose, as seen in his video.

ACC killed Goku on day 41.

Nutmeg [260864]: 2 years old; killed August 24. Nutmeg’s owner called the police and had him hauled off to ACC when, according to the owner, he bit a finger when being “discliplined.” They left no notes on his life before ACC. Doesn’t seem like it could have been good.

Nutmeg was timid and scared at ACC, not eating much. Sometimes he cowered and flinched but did his best to cooperate. He did well in his dog/dog greet. Sadly, the dog tried to bite him during play.

In the safety of the office, Nutmeg grew more comfortable, approaching people for pets and wagging his tail. They made a really bad video of him there, mostly showing his butt. Seemed like everything was against this young pup, ACC wasn’t about to make it any better.

Dr. Brennen’s vet team killed Nutmeg on day 29.

Mister Simba [262221]: 3 years old; killed August 24. Mister Simba’s owners said he was a playful and affectionate pup and also that he spent most of his time in a crate. At ACC he lived in captivity 23 1/2 hours, 7 days a week, in a kennel, and he really didn’t want to go back in. Obviously, he was fed up with being caged. Certainly, he deserved a better life.

We don’t know much about Mister Simba. All ACC wrote in their notes is the many ways he tried to avoid going into his kennel. His photo, the only photo they took of him, seems to show a beautiful dog defeated.

ACC killed Mister Simba on day 12.

Dolce [262498]: 4 years old; killed August 24. Dolce was killed day 10.

Brought to ACC because of ongoing medical concerns, ACC neutered him to shrink his enlarged prostate.

After surgery he began vomiting for several days. ACC suspected that he’d ingested a foreign body and needed to have an abdominal exploratory surgery. They put out a call for a rescue organization to provide care, but ended up performing the surgery themselves on the 24th.

According to ACC, “because of the intestinal perforation and ensuing peritonitis,” they killed him. Whether Dolce was put to death during or after surgery is unknown.

Thumpa [262513]: 8 weeks old; killed August 25. Thumpa was brought in with her mom. She had diarrhea and fleas.

After 10 days of letting her languish without adequate medical treatment, ACC put out an alert to rescue organizations to save Thumpa by 3 p.m. the same day. “Not thriving and she needs more care than we can give her,” the “shelter” with the $1.4B contract wrote.

She got interest from a rescue, but it was too late. Thumpa died the same day due to ACC medical neglect.

Apollo [259476]: 1 year old; killed August 25. Apollo’s human surrendered him due to their health. They said he was a loving and playful puppy, a hugger.

At ACC he was shut down with grief after his human left and was hesitant to leave his kennel. Fearful, ACC said he was overwhelmed by barking dogs and sudden sounds.

Once out of the kennel, he became social and affectionate with handlers, leaning in for pets when he felt safe.

Of course ACC did not give him enough time to recover his true self. They killed Apollo on day 18.

Gumball [261312]: 3 years old; killed August 25. Like so many dogs, stray Gumball didn’t want to go back into his kennel, pancaking even at the prospect of going back into the building.

He was social with handlers, but also sick with diarrhea six days after his arrival. ACC waited six additional days — too long — before starting a course of Panacur (for deworming) and a GI diet.

ACC put Gumball on the “at-risk” list the same day they started treatment, so we don’t have any medical records indicating whether he responded to the treatment or continued to be sick, since a dog’s records are published when they are marked “at-risk,” but aren’t updated. Whatever happened during Gumball’s last 12 days at ACC is unknown.

ACC killed Gumball on day 25.

Bambi [262147]: 2 years old; killed August 26. An affectionate long-legged boy with big ears, Bambi was exuberant and always happy to get out of his pop-up crate, extremely reluctant to return.

Found stray, ACC wrote that on intake, Bambi was “super excited, so full of energy and no manners.” Apparently that’s enough to get Team Brennen to bust out the Trazodone — which is indicated for anxiety, not high energy.

Three days later, when it was reported that Bambi was balking on return to his crate, Brennen et al. increased the Trazodone and added Gabapentin.

And that was that. ACC killed Bambi on day 17.

TJ [259762]: 3 years old; killed August 26. TJ lived happily with three kids. His family said he was sweet and affectionate, social with strangers and children.

On intake at ACC, TJ was calm and gentle with all, even leaning into pets with children in the lobby. Two days later, when taken for a medical exam, he was a very frightened dog.

TJ was more relaxed when outside the building. Taken for a walk, when the handler spoke to him, he would go into a sit and wag his tail. Going back into his kennel was torture for TJ. On at least one occasion, once inside, he would throw himself against the walls and screech.

TJ was killed on day 29. It probably would have been sooner. He got an extra week because after ACC put him on kill command, his owner said they would reclaim him. They didn’t. ACC killed TJ the next day.

Buddy [261810]: 1 year old; killed August 27. Buddy, a puppy brought to ACC by the city, was very scared in his crate. By the time of his medical exam the next day he was loose and wiggly.

Buddy’s “at-risk” memo shows how superficial and vague ACC’s excuses for killing can be. They wrote: “Buddy is at risk due to behavioral reasons. While in care, Buddy has been observed to have a low threshold for arousal. Noted to excessively mount and mouth the handler’s leg. He is also observed to fixate on other dogs and pull towards them with a tense body. This behavior is able to be redirected once distance from the dog is increased. With handlers, Buddy will solicit attention and is receptive to treats. Medically, Buddy recently recovered from CIRDC.”

In fact, ACC recorded only one incident of him fixating on other dogs and one incident of him “slightly fixating” — both times easily redirected. On another occasion they wrote that while on a walk, “Buddy is social with handler and looks back frequently for check-ins. He allows petting and leans onto handler’s legs seeking interaction. Buddy will stop and look with interest at other dogs; he is not receptive to treats but disengages quickly by his own. He doesn’t react toward other people passerby. His body remains neutral with relaxed face during the walk. Upon return handler is able to pre-clip the leash and bring Buddy back into his kennel with no issues.”

Ten days later, on August 24, they put Buddy on their “happy cocktail” — Trazodone, Gabapentin, and Clonidine, purportedly meant to treat anxiety but seemingly applied to induce compliance — writing that Buddy had recently been made TDO (Transfer Door Only), meaning he was not allowed out of his kennel for walks or potty breaks.

Meaning Dr. Brennen’s “treatment” for “anxiety” includes sentencing drugged-up puppies to live alone in their own waste with no reprieve.

ACC exterminated puppy Buddy three days into his TDO torture session, 22 days after intake.

Bennie [262082]: 2 years old; killed August 28. Bennie, a girl, was attacked by a dog or dogs, likely more than once.

Bennie had multiple bite wounds —punctures and lacerations — in various stages of healing on her legs, hip, head, and neck. An older wound on her bottom lip was badly infected and necrotic.

ACC noted that on intake Bennie was thrashing and trying to flee, although when they weren’t trying to handle her she timidly approached people for sniffs. They wrote: “Suspect pain and trepidation d/t head injuries related to some behavior observations, notably with leashing.”

Trepidation aside, Bennie was petrified, and with good reason. She did not want to leave the safety of her kennel, although she would cautiously come forward for treats. Flagged for cruelty, Bennie didn’t get any special attention or care from behaviorists trained to help a traumatized abused dog. Based on ACC’s notes, they did almost nothing at all.

Nineteen days after Bennie’s arrival, ACC compounded the cruelty by killing her.

Zeus Caterpillie [262775]: 6 years old; killed August 28. Zeus Caterpillie was found emaciated and tied to a fence.

On intake, he was friendly, soliciting pets, and very wiggly. This despite being sick. He had melena — diarrhea with fresh and digested blood — which is considered a medical emergency. He also had anemia. ACC said they couldn’t give him the care that he needed. What he needed was diagnostics and further care to determine what was causing the melena.

A week later, Zeus also had CIRDC, and his anemia was severe. Having washed their hands of doing more, ACC finally put out a call for help, saying, “We have not been able to identify the source of the blood in his diarrhea. Zeus Caterpillie needs more advanced diagnostics and more individualized care than we can provide in shelter. Zeus has been a very sweet boy for his medical handling and has been eating with a good appetite.” Their medical notes indicated he needed “placement for abdominal ultrasound and endoscopy with internist +/- blood transfusion.”

Two days later, nine days after Zeus Caterpillie came to ACC sick, they killed him. They said it was due to clinical concerns for sepsis, combined with severe anemia and a guarded prognosis.

Whatever excuse happens to present itself.

Proximity [261999]: 2 years old; killed late August. Proximity, found stray, has, for advocates who want to save dogs and cats, become a symbol of many things that are wrong at ACC.

She was a volunteer favorite. One wrote, “I don’t know what to say except: SQUEEEEEEE! This is absolutely the cutest little dumpling ever! She’s 2, 34 Ibs and has been in care about 6 days. She is simply adorable. All she and her tiny legs and button nose — is that a pawprint on her nose? — wanted to do was follow me into the backyard, climb into my lap and hug me every chance she got. So, we sat and cuddled and played and cuddled and played. Absolute adorability.”

Another volunteer wrote, “Proximity is pretty hard to resist. She’s wiggly, excitable, and full of happy energy, especially when she gets attention … She’s still young and has that playful, enthusiastic personality that makes you smile just watching her. She earned a Level-1 behavior rating and is eager to connect, soak up attention, and be part of whatever fun is happening around her.”

It’s not surprising that Proximity was quickly adopted. Nor, unfortunately, is what happened next.

Returned to ACC a week or so later, Proximity was exterminated without being offered for adoption — another silent kill.

ACC has not responded to advocates’ questions about what happened. Proximity was loved. There were at least two people who had offered to adopt her the first time she was at ACC, and would have been happy to save her upon her return.

Of course, ACC is known to kill dogs who have homes waiting, so what they did to Proximity is nothing new.

Some believe something happened at her adopters’ home and she was returned in bad shape. No one knows, which compounds the anguish suffered by New Yorkers who tried to save her.

Which is just how Mayor Mamdani and Speaker Menin want it.

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NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for. Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Oreo Firecracker [259810]: 3 years old; killed August 9. During Oreo Firecracker’s medical exam, the team noted he was “generally friendly, loose, wiggly … Hyper. Curious. Jumping on people out of curiosity and poor manners.”

Even though they gave him the second best behavior rating, they immediately put Oreo on their “happy cocktail” of drugs Trazodone, Gabapentin, and Clonidine that substitutes for care. Oreo seemed to be doing well enough in the first week, was easily leashed and leaned in for pets. They increased the Trazodone, which didn’t help, possibly hurt. Trazodone, meant to calm a dog, is also known to have a paradoxical effect, increasing agitation.

Oreo Firecracker, ACC said had “warmed up to some handlers, engaging in play, soliciting attention and becoming loose-bodied once comfortable.” Still, they killed him on day 26.

Mosholu [261494]: 4 years old; killed August 10. Mosholu was left tied to a pole in the park for three days. He was emaciated, weighing just 40 pounds and flagged for cruelty.

He was very scared and immediately put on all three ACC go-to drugs: Trazodone, Gabapentin, and Clonidine.

Two days after he came to ACC, they wrote this note: “Mosholu is lying down at the front of his kennel with a loose body and forward ears. The handler offers him a treat and he gets up and takes it and begins wagging his tail high and slow. He keeps taking treats. The interaction is ended.”

That’s the only note in his record that shows them providing care. There are no notes that show him being taken out for walks or to the play yard.

ACC killed Mosholu on day nine.

Casper [261829]: 5 months old; killed August 10. Casper was surrendered to ACC and was killed four days later, a silent kill.

His owners said he had seizures, although ACC reported no signs of them, or neurological deficits. He was on a seizure medication that ACC continued.

Casper’s family also said he was an affectionate, very playful puppy. ACC noted that he was very friendly, loose, wiggly, and social with staff on intake.

Because Casper was a silent kill, there are no public records that state why they killed him.

Braxton [261074]: 4 years old; killed August 11. With his bloodshot eyes and subdued demeanor, Braxton seemed like a dog that knew he was doomed from the start.

Brought in by the police and removed from their car using a control pole, Braxton was terrified. Shut down from fear, he didn’t want to leave his kennel.

On intake, he had superficial abrasions on his paws and appeared to have been sprayed with a sticky substance, possibly white paint, on his face and head.

ACC says he was a stray but also that he was an owner surrender, with a description of him as an affectionate family dog who knew many commands including “cuddle.” It’s unclear whether they mistakenly merged two records or possibly tracked down his family.

ACC killed Braxton on day 14.

Andy [256654]: 7 years old; found dead August 12. On intake, Andy’s medical exam in June ACC found no health issues other than obesity. There were no further exams.

Andy, ACC wrote, was shy but accepted all petting and exchanged slow blinks with handlers.

Andy reportedly “died in care” about eight weeks after he was admitted. ACC watchers said “shelter” staff falsely claimed Andy had an adopter lined up — making him unavailable to adopters, fosters and rescues — and allowed him to “languish” until he died. Which if true would not be the worst thing ACC has done to a vulnerable cat or dog.

Chester [261919]: 13 years old; killed August 13. Chester was found on August 8 and killed five days later by ACC without being listed for foster or adoption, a silent kill.

Layluh Rayne [190264]: 4 years old; killed August 13. Layluh Rayne was at ACC twice, the first time in January 2024 when she was also given a kill command but was reclaimed by her family.

She returned in late July 2026, an owner surrender. She was very scared, trembling, her tail tucked even when more relaxed in the play yard. Layluh Rayne cooperated with leashing, and walked well, ignoring passersby and other dogs.

ACC killed Layluh Rayne on day 20.

Wemmy [262000]: 9 years old; killed August 13. Wemmy was found on August 9 and killed by ACC four days later without being listed for foster or adoption, a silent kill.

Jada, a.k.a. Glitter [244637]: 2 years old; killed August 14. Jada, a.k.a. Glitter, was at ACC three times in seven months. On her final visit, she was found stray. On her third stay, ACC spayed Jada a week after intake. We don’t know why she wasn’t spayed when reclaimed after her first two stays. The vet that spayed her found an enlarged left ovary. In the next days, she vomited and had diarrhea, and within a week was urinating clots of blood.

A volunteer wrote, “Poor Jada can not catch a break! She has been brought in multiple times over the last year by police, each time being reclaimed. However, this time, no one has come for her and now she is in immediate need of medical care due to a possible mass near her bladder’s neck and an enlarged heart. She only has a few more hours to be placed or she will be euthanized.

“We have been lucky enough to meet Jada all three times she’s been at QACC and each time she has charmed us to no end. There’s been a running theme of dressing her up, first in pjs, then in a cute summer dress and most recently, in a bikini that she looked absolutely ridiculous in, though adorable nonetheless. Throughout her various stays, her behavior has been consistent: sweet, social, loving and playful. Right now, Jada needs continued monitoring and additional diagnostics outside of the shelter so that she can recover. A $1000 stipend has been offered to a rescue that can pull her and provide the follow up vet care.”

ACC wrote, “given the findings and the possibility of an underlying bladder or reproductive tract neoplasia, we feel she should be moved out of the shelter as soon as possible for continued monitoring, additional diagnostics, and appropriate medical care.”

The 24-hour deadline for rescue passed and ACC killed Jada for undiagnosed medical issues. That’s not euthanasia.

Grey [262090]: 3 months old; found dead August 14. Grey was on ACC’s “at-risk” list due to medical concerns. They wrote, “Grey is a young kitten who was in a hoarding situation and found to have a rectal prolapse. It is a possibility that she will have prolapses in the future and will need ongoing medical care. Grey allowed all handling and was sweet during her exam.”

Grey’s medical exam took place on August 11 with no follow up notes. She was reportedly found dead in her cage three days later.

Kiara [260296]: 5 years old; killed August 16. Kiara briefly lived with the person who found her; they said she was timid but a friendly and affectionate couch potato. She was anxious at ACC, often whimpering but also seeking reassurance and pets.

ACC wrote on her “at-risk” memo (their excuse for killing a dog), “she continues to present as fearful and highly anxious during walks, she even attempted to run away from a handler.” A person scared her, so they killed her?

Robin Brennen’s vet team gave Kiara all the drugs in their arsenal, then killed her on day 22.

Papa [259551]: 3 years old; killed August 16. Papa was much loved by his family, who became homeless. They said he loved car rides and long days in the park.

A volunteer said, “When dogs like Papa come to the shelter, I pray they have owner notes from their surrender. It helps us see past the scared dog in a scary place, maybe acting out of sorts. It helps us see the dog they were just the day before they arrived, and the dog they may, hopefully, get to be again.

“At the shelter Papa is scared. He seems uncertain at times when we pet him, and most of all he’s reactive to dogs. From his notes I learn so much from his now homeless guardian that described their dog as intelligent and affectionate. First I learn that Papa came in with a sister, a German shepherd named Sasha who is now in an ACC foster home. I also learn that he was attacked by a dog in the past, which is why he reacts to new dogs, but his guardian found him easy to redirect … But right now Papa is struggling, surrounded by his trigger, without his guardian to reassure and redirect him.”

On walks, Papa, who was always easy to leash, ignored other dogs. It was inside the shelter, surrounded by dogs, where he became reactive. ACC noted that Papa was social and engaging with handlers. They killed Papa on day 34.

Senorita Roja [261747]: 3 years old; killed August 16. An emaciated and dehydrated 24-pound pup, Senorita Roja was killed 11 days after she was found abandoned at a train station.

She was scared and uncomfortable confined to her kennel. On one occasion when being leashed, she nipped at the handler’s thumb, which did not break skin. She was a sweet starved dog; they gave her extra feedings but not the time necessary to decompress.

Baloo [258714]: 2 years old; killed August 16. ACC wrote that Baloo, found stray, loved to snuggle and would stay close to her handler.

A volunteer said, “Her brown eyes are bright, and when her face relaxes and her ears come forward to listen to us telling her how adorable she is, I can’t suppress my smile. Like so many dogs Baloo was found stray after being tied up somewhere. That means we don’t have information about how she was in her previous home, but from our interactions and her notes the word wiggly appears often. At some point someone spent the time to teach her lots of cues, like sit and paw and down. And she’s been social meeting other dogs in playgroup.”

ACC killed Baloo on day 48.

Major [224778]: 5 years old; killed August 16. The first time Major came to ACC it was because his family lost their home to eviction. He was adopted April 2025 and returned to ACC in August of 2026 because his family couldn’t afford the treatments he needed to address a lame hind limb.

At 110 pounds, he was known as a silly gentle giant, a lover of toys.

Major was killed six days after he entered ACC without being offered for foster or adoption. Because it was a silent kill, we don’t know why Brennen and company took Major’s life.

Teaspoon [262265]: 10 years old; killed August 17. “Teaspoon is a lovely senior found under a Good Samaritan’s car,” a volunteer wrote. “She is a quiet soul in her kennel, laying peacefully in her main area and getting up and ready right away when someone is at her door. Such a gentle lady who enjoys petting, soft words and even lays nonchalantly at the entrance of her kennel, looking at all the volunteers and staff admiring her and likely hoping to make it on my lap.”

Another volunteer wrote, “Teaspoon is absolutely adorable. We became friends right away and it was not hard to do. She is a big girl with a whole lot of love to give.”

Teaspoon was found to be diabetic, a treatable disease, and was killed on day five, another silent kill.

Ragnar [258701]: 4 years old; killed August 17. A family dog, kicked out by the landlord, Ragnar lived with five adults, two kids, three dogs and a cat.

His family said he was very active and an affectionate cuddler, anxious when left alone. At ACC he was stressed at first, but soon grew more social, was leashed with ease, and leaned in for pets.

ACC killed Ragnar on day 33.

Double Dutch [261619]: 5 years old; killed August 17. Double Dutch, a stray, was killed for leash biting on day 10.

ACC admits he was social and loved engaging in pattern games, but we know very little about him as their notes focused almost exclusively on the fact that he was biting the leash.

Pantherella [261965]: 5 months old; killed August 19. Pantheralla, found stray, was a silent kill. We don’t know why ACC killed her or precisely how long she was there, although we believe she was at ACC for a few weeks.

Grapefruit [258537]: 3 years old; killed August 19. Grapefruit, a stray, arrived fearful but soon became a social pup who did well on walks, was responsive to handlers, and sought affection. She leaned in for more pets and rolled over for belly rubs.

Unnerved by all the dogs in pop-up crates lining the hallways, Grapefruit became dog-reactive. But when outside and on walks, she paid little mind to dogs. She was always easy to leash and eager to get outside, even when feeling poorly.

Grapefruit had CIRDC twice while there, due to ever-present unsanitary conditions. ACC killed her on day 51.

Queen Bee [260174]: 4 years old; killed August 20. Queen Bee was found stray and stayed with her finder for a month before being kicked out by the landlord with a no-pets policy. Her finder said she was a social, sweet, and affectionate couch potato who loved to cuddle. At ACC she was nervous at first, but soon settled in. On walks, she would frequently check in with her handler and followed verbal cues.

She caught CIRDC, which progressed to pneumonia, during her first week at ACC. In treatment they switched from injectable medications to pills more than once, despite noting that she was not eating the medication. They put her on the “at-risk” list for medical reasons, stating she needed placement in a quiet home to recover.

A few days before they killed her they released a new video (above); she was clearly slowing down due to illness, but still walking and enjoying being close to handlers.

ACC killed Queen Bee on day 41.

Everett [262149]: 5 years old; killed Aug 19 or 20. Everett, a stray, came to ACC on August 10. He got scared being leashed but did well on walks, was very social and playful with handlers. He loved to play fetch!

ACC killed Everett for “quality of life in care due to his inability to completely unhinge/open his jaw for normal mastication/eating.”

Killing Everett for quality of life “in care” is an indictment of the quality of ACC’s care. As his video above shows, he could open his mouth enough to carry a ball so surely he could eat puréed foods. Further diagnostics might offer other options, including surgery.

But that would have required common sense and compassion, both of which are vanishingly scarce at Zohran Mamdani’s kill pound. Instead, ACC put Everett to death — after reportedly turning away at least one rescue that wanted him.

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NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for. Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this ACC practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

Though ACC is bankrolled by taxpayers, the city conceals personnel contact information from New Yorkers. As a public service, The Scoop New York makes ACC staff email addresses available to readers.

In May 2026, the city’s health commissioner was Alister Martin. Martin’s boss, the mayor, was Zohran Mamdani. The City Council speaker was Julie Menin. Contact information for officials responsible for ACC oversight appears below.

NYC ACC May 2026 outcome data

CATS KILLED THIS MONTH: 152
CATS KILLED THIS YEAR: 582

DOGS KILLED THIS MONTH: 168
DOGS KILLED THIS YEAR: 757

Note that ACC omits from its “euthanasia” totals owner-surrendered animals who were exterminated without being offered for adoption. Placement rates reported by ACC do not include such cats and dogs, but they are counted among the dead by TSNY.

Animals whom ACC classifies as “died in care” or “lost in care” are named and counted by TSNY, among the cats and dogs ACC is known to have destroyed with intent.

In memoriam

Merida [253280]: Age unknown; killed during the week of April 26. Merida was found on April 29. ACC killed her a few days later, never offering her for adoption. Another silent kill.

Lark [242110]: 6 years old; killed during the week of April 26. Lark, a stray, entered ACC on November 20. They say his little snorts earned him the nickname Piglet and he had a sweet personality.

Taken in by a foster, at some point recently he was returned to ACC. Instead of looking for a new foster or adopter, ACC killed him. A silent kill.

April [251102]: 9 years old; killed during the week of April 26. Volunteers said senior April was a professional snuggle bunny, loved meeting new people, and always had a plushie with her for comfort.

Like Lark, April was placed in foster and recently returned to ACC. Instead of finding a new foster or adopter, ACC killed her. Like Lark, a silent kill.

Tulip [250471]: 1 year old; killed May 1. “At under 40 pounds, Tulip is about as lap sized as you can get (in our opinion),” said one of the volunteers who loved her. “We dress Tulip up in pajamas, which is fitting for her baby personality. She is sweet, shy and social. She quickly makes her way to a lap, the best place for a pittie in PJs to be. Tulip came in underweight with overgrown nails, but her fur is so so soft [it’s] like she went to a luxury hairdresser.”

Tulip was found wandering in a park when she ran up to another dog and their owner for help. They probably thought they were doing the right thing.

Tulip was highly social with staff and volunteers at ACC, and did well in her dog/dog greet. She loved her toys a bit too much to share them and they were teaching her to drop and trade. She was getting the hang of it.

ACC killed Tulip on day 37 for mouthy behavior and impulse control, things like grabbing a staff’s pants leg for attention. In other words, ACC killed her for being a puppy.

Baby [250135]: 3 years old; killed May 1. Eight dogs were surrendered to ACC by an owner who had terminal cancer. First ACC killed Precious, then Uno, and this week, they killed Baby.

“When we meet Baby, he is a bit shy and aloof,” says a volunteer. “Still, he comes over for petting, wags his tail softly and enjoys all of the treats we have to offer. We see brief glimpses of playfulness when he runs after a ball and retrieves and brings back a stuffy toy. He has the sweetest face, though it’s covered in scars and scabs from a recent scuffle he had with one of his siblings.”

Very sweet, very scared, traumatized by the chaotic removal from his home, Baby tried to rally. He went from trembling and hiding behind handlers and scurrying back into the safety of his kennel when dogs started barking to tentatively beginning to play and appreciating gentle pets. Wasn’t good enough. ACC killed him on day 31.

Nova [251237]: 2 years old; killed May 3. During her medical exam, ACC staff wrote that Nova, a stray: “Leans in for petting, then lays down on [the] floor and falls asleep with belly rubs. Whines when examiner steps away and leans in again when examiner returns.”

ACC spayed Nova just one week before they killed her, which makes you wonder, what did she do in that last week at ACC to make them suddenly decide she had to die? There are no notes to suggest anything happened. Another question: Did they perform a risky spay while she was in heat? They said she was in heat on arrival.

Video of Nova’s exam shows what an extraordinarily trusting pup she was. The medical staff in the room enthused over her, which makes it all the more horrifying that Dr. Robin Brennen’s ACC vet team killed Nova on day 30.

Ashiya [246413]: 2 years old; killed May 3. Ashiya, formerly known as Ashes, lived with a dog and a cat, mostly outside. Her owner said she was fearful of new people. Despite being afraid of strangers, Ashiya was social with handlers at ACC and liked to play fetch/trade games with them.

A volunteer wrote, “This wonderful dog is such a big love: so smart and affectionate, great on a leash and a serious ball player in the backyard. One ball is good, but two are even better (three is an embarrassment of riches, and a bit too much). Ashiya loves to chase them, then ‘trap’ them under the bench and play: her wagging tail says it all.

“She walks beautifully on a leash, pulling only occasionally, is very curious, treat-motivated, responsive to her handler and a quick learner. Ashiya has a happy spirit, seeks your pets and affection in the yard, and is simply lovely. I am perplexed as to why she is still at the shelter after 50 days. Someone, grab this wonderful dog and take her home.”

One nip that didn’t break skin when Ashiya was startled by another dog seems to have landed her on the kill list. ACC had spayed Ashiya shortly after her arrival; they killed her on day 79.

Maple [250509]: 1 year old; killed May 4. Loose and wiggly on intake, Maple, a stray found tied up at Rockaway Beach, sought affection. Staff wrote that he was “friendly, active and people-oriented … often jumping up socially when excited but also has a soft side and enjoys leaning into touch.” Maple lived with his finder for two weeks and they said he was playful and friendly with strangers, kids, and other dogs.

ACC posted this “fun fact” about him: “Maple is a sweet, bouncy boy who brings a lot of joy and personality into a room. Once he’s in your life, things get a little sweeter and a lot more fun.”

Guess they forgot that fact. Maple was one of way too many spay-neuter-kill victims at ACC — one of three in the same week. ACC killed Maple on day 41.

Sugar Peas [251576]: 5 years old; killed May 6. ACC put stray Sugar Peas on their kill list because “he has not acclimated well to the kennel environment.” In the month he was at ACC, he was extremely sick. On intake they noted he was fearful at first, but became friendly and outgoing. His symptoms started the day after he arrived with violent vomiting and bloody diarrhea. He stopped eating, became dehydrated and shocky, collapsed while trying to walk. The second week he had surgery to remove a corn cob from his intestine. Inexplicably, after such an invasive surgery they decided to increase the risk to him by neutering a very sick dog.

During his recovery, the third week, he continued to vomit and have diarrhea. By this point, Sugar Peas had lost a great deal of weight, with muscle loss. Not surprisingly, given his weakened condition, he caught CIRDC. What happened next would be farcical if the outcome wasn’t so tragic. Sugar Peas grabbed hold of a staff member’s shoe and wouldn’t let go. The staff member removed their shoe, but Sugar Peas wouldn’t drop it until he was given chicken as a trade. For this, ACC put him on their at-risk (of “euthanasia”) list, the day he was declared recovered from CIRDC. ACC killed Sugar Peas on day 29.

Asreil [250708]: 1 year old; killed May 7. Upon arrival, ACC’s medical staff wrote that Asreil is a “big sweet boy who just doesn’t know how big he is!” He was an easygoing cooperative pup: easily leashed, did well on walks, checked in with handlers, and got along well with the other dogs there, offering soft greetings and play bows.

“It’s hard to miss Asreil,” a volunteer said. “He’s just a baby, a year old, and already 114 pounds! But it’s all goodwill, sweetness, and leaning in for pets and attention. He’s keeping a smile on his young face, trying to ‘give paw’ when asked, and getting lots of love from the volunteers.”

Another volunteer said Asreil was “such a friendly goof…had the sweetest big-puppy energy … a majestic, special boy.”

A big hunk of puppy love, Asreil got lots of love back from volunteers, but not from ACC, which killed him on day 61.

Roxie [113900]: 6 years old; killed May 7. Roxie, a volunteer said, “brings good girl energy. She is social, silly, and loving. She is on the petite side, under 50 pounds and kind of a little nugget. She is a perfect middle aged lady at 6 years old.”

Roxie had been at ACC twice, first at ACC five years ago as a stray puppy. Roxie’s owner surrendered ACC because her separation anxiety resulted in excessive barking and housing complaints. At ACC, Roxie proved to be great with other dogs, offering play bows and participating in playgroup. She was also social and wiggly with handlers.

ACC killed her, not for anything that happened at the “shelter.” The good Dr. Brennen had her exterminated on day 30 because of “behavior concerns at her previous home,” a bite incident that her human didn’t blame her for.

Japchae [251822]: 5 years old; killed May 7. Japchae, a stray, was very fearful at first, but grew more comfortable with time. He had a bad lingering case of CIRDC and conjunctivitis; Brennen’s vet staff wouldn’t give him meds for his eyes due to behavior. Don’t they have trained vets at ACC?

Living in a pop-up crate isn’t easy and ACC said Japchae wasn’t acclimating, though he was easily leashed, did well on walks, and didn’t react to other dogs.

ACC killed Japchae on day 27.

Sir Wellington [251929]: 2 years old; killed May 7. A volunteer writes that Sir Wellington, a stray, “seems to have drawn the short straw when it comes to kennel location, as this poor guy is stuck in a hallway pop-up crate near the front door. So, I try to check on him and take him out as soon as I get to the shelter.

“I love this guy. He is a happy, energetic walker and a highly professional sniffer. He loves reading all the ‘pee mails’ on the street and is very inclined to send quite a few of his own, lol. Sir Wellington is a gentle soul, very responsive to his handler and readily sits for treats.“

Given too many human-grade sedatives for stress from living in the pop-up crate they confined him to, ACC killed Sir Wellington on day 25.

The volunteer posted: “So deeply, deeply sorry, sweet boy. I know you loved your walks and sniffaris so much. I loved walking with you. RIP, Sir Wellington. Go explore all the parks and fragrant places. Read all the pee mails and take your time sending as many responses as you want. No more pop-up crates, ever.”

Stormy [249747]: 2 years old; killed May 8. Stormy was found wandering the streets with two puppies believed to be hers; the puppies found homes.

“It is always the dogs who don’t let their unfortunate circumstances break their spirit who continue to amaze me,” said a volunteer. “Stormy is one of those dogs. The first time I meet her, shortly after she arrived at the care center, I’m instantly smitten. She has an infectious energy, is eager to connect — and she’s incredibly, astonishingly, ridiculously cute.

“Stormy’s true passion is quickly revealed when we bring her to the yard: toys, toys, and more toys. She flings plushies in the air, runs joyfully with them in tow, and deposits them in our lap as if to say ‘more playing, please.’ She personifies everything dog people love about dogs: pumped to be in the moment, to enjoy the present and the people around her, to gleefully explore her surroundings on walks.”

ACC killed Stormy on day 54.

Juan Pablo [252579]: 2 years old; killed May 8. ACC killed Juan Pablo just nine days after he was found on the street. He was very scared at ACC but found a friend he could trust in one handler.

ACC took two photos, didn’t make a video, never really tried to find a home for him or do what they’re supposed to do: care.

Duckie [249655]: 2 years old; killed May 8. Duckie was found wandering the streets with a broken splint on a leg that proved to have been badly broken and not healing well, causing lameness. At intake he was wiggly, jumping up for attention.

He never stopped seeking attention, enjoying being close to whoever he could find, plopping onto laps, and resting his head on shoulders. On walks he would jump up, lean his paws against the handler’s body and lick their face.

Duckie liked spending time picking the toy he would take on his walk and he really loved to play. He didn’t have many opportunities to do so. On intake, he had been put on “cage rest,” which lasted the whole time he was there (eight weeks) and was heavily sedated to keep him from moving around too much.

All wiggly, wagging Duckie wanted was love and attention; his spirit was broken stuck sedated in a pop-up crate. ACC killed Duckie for leash biting on day 56.

Jax [250700]: 2 years old; killed May 9. When his owner passed out in the street, Jax stayed by his side guarding him and nipped the police officer who came to do a wellness check.

Jax was very afraid at ACC, had a hard time there but was learning to relax. The last notes they wrote about Jax said he was “loose bodied, play-bows and makes soft eye contact with the handler … easily leashed .. loose bodied on sidewalk … takes treats gently … allows petting of head, neck, and torso.” Still, ACC put him on the “at-risk” (of being exterminated by ACC) list.

On April 22, ACC notified the networkers that help place dogs on the at-risk list that Jax was reclaimed; they issued a photo of Jax with his owner. On May 7, networkers were surprised to learn that ACC had just issued a kill command for Jax, claiming that he had never been reclaimed.

For over two weeks, Jax was not listed at ACC, had no profile, no way of anyone knowing he was available for foster, no networkers or rescue organizations working to find Jax a home. ACC killed Jax two days later. What happened, where he was in the last two weeks of his life, we do not know.

Zeus [253023]: 7 years old; killed May 9. Zeus was found on the streets on April 27 and killed 12 days later, a silent kill.

ACC never tried to find him a foster or adopter, never posted any information about him. All we have is his age and his photo — a noble face — from his lost and found record.

Coffee Grounds [251087]: 2 years old; killed May 11. ACC named a young stray dog Coffee Grounds, continuing their long tradition of issuing spiteful and dehumanizing names to stray dogs they are supposed to care for.

ACC wrote, “This girl is a young stray who was found tied to a pole and is now starting a new chapter where she can finally learn what safety and stability feel like. Her past is unknown, but what she shows us today is a dog who is eager to connect with people.”

Coffee Grounds had “puppy energy” and curiosity, she liked to stick close to her handler, seeking attention and affection. She didn’t get that “new chapter” they said she was ready for. ACC killed her on day 40.

Eggsy [251376]: 7 months old; killed May 12. When Eggsy was 6 months old he was turned over to the police by an anonymous person who said Eggsy bit her and her daughter, but refused to show the police any proof of bites. A call from another anonymous person to police said Eggsy had been taken from a person who wasn’t feeding him.

At ACC, a volunteer called foul on the biting accusation in the video they made of adorable Eggsy. Regardless, Eggsy paid the price, first by having to spend his time in isolation on DOH hold during his first week at ACC. Then those unproven bites became part of ACC’s excuse for killing him

During his stay at ACC, Eggsy never showed any signs of aggression or even defensive behavior. He was bouncy and social, eager to greet staff. A volunteer wrote, “Less than a year old, this incredibly handsome boy is a very playful, exuberant puppy. He has lots of pep in his step and simply loves treats, which he very readily sits for … After taking a treat, he would immediately sit again on his own, tail wagging as he waited patiently for the next one.”

ACC killed Eggsy 37 days after he arrived, citing “overarousal.” In other words, like so many other victims, ACC killed Eggsy for being a puppy.

Looper [252212]: 1 year old; killed May 13. Looper, a stray, came to ACC tail wagging, friendly and hopeful, although feeling poorly with diarrhea that lasted several days.

Over time, playful and energetic Looper, surrounded by barking dogs, became increasingly dog reactive. A high-energy pup, he remained cooperative and social with staff despite his shelter-induced stress.

ACC killed Looper on day 26.

Mahogany [253653]: age unknown; killed May 14. Mahogany was found on May 4. She was adopted soon after and returned to ACC.

Instead of trying to re-home her, ACC killed Mahogany 10 days after she was found on the street, a silent kill.

Pancho [253270]: 7 years old; killed May 16. His human said 108-pound Pancho was affectionate and timid, initially fearful around strangers. He played gently with other dogs and was respectful of kids. Surrendered because their landlord would not allow, Pancho was terrified and bewildered at ACC, trembling and avoiding interactions with staff. He did well on walks but panicked and froze on occasion.

At ACC Pancho had a mass, ear infection, and elevated liver enzymes. He was issued a waiver for being neutered because of his medical condition and age. On May 6, his medical records note a post-surgical exam. It didn’t specify what for, though most likely they neutered Pancho despite the risks.

By the May 12, he had CIRDC, had stopped eating, and had blood in his urine. Their last note on Pancho, before they killed him on day 18, was that he wasn’t eating, which meant he also wasn’t getting his medicine.

Stone [250970]: 7 years old; killed May 16. Stone, a peanut-butter-loving couch potato, was abandoned by his owner who said they had allergies to the dog who had lived his whole life with them.

He was calm on intake, leaned in for pets, wagged his tail, and allowed all handling, but soon became fearful. ACC said he would avoid handlers. His video shows otherwise: a playful senior pup, thoroughly enjoying butt rubs and comfortable being close to his handler.

ACC killed Stone on day 25.

Peanut [246695]: 4 years old; killed May 16. Peanut was found alone in the basement of a building where she’d been for about a month. She was scared on intake and even more so a week later when another dog broke loose from their kennel and bit her three times, leaving deep puncture wounds.

A volunteer wrote, “Peanut is a shy girl in an overwhelming environment … Since she came into the care center, she has been very nervous, but given time and some space to breathe, she can relax a bit into a gentle, demure girl. She often flinches with fast movement, and jumps away from interaction. When she has more agency, Peanut leans into pets, gently and cautiously.

“Peanut’s body language on walks changes as she gets further from the shelter; she loosens her stride and relaxes. But walking back to the shelter she tenses again, nervous to be back inside.”

ACC wrote that Peanut, enrolled in the “shelter scholar” program, was working to stay focused and calm in overwhelming situations. Per her notes, “Peanut is making great strides and is well on her way to becoming a more composed and confident pup.”

Well on her way, but not given time to find a home. Instead, after spaying her on April 21, ACC killed Peanut on day 43.

Peter Pan [251263]: 7 years old; killed May 17. Peter Pan, flagged for cruelty and neglect, arrived at ACC emaciated with a skull and jaw fracture, a wound, and a lame hind leg. Even so, his good nature prevailed; during his medical exam he wagged his tail and leaned into staff for affection.

Peter Pan did great in the dog/dog greet, loved playing fetch in the yard, was easily leashed and walked well, checking in with the handler and ignoring other dogs. In the play yard he would gently lick his handler’s face and roll onto their lap. On his walks in and out of the shelter, he happily greeted familiar staff.

ACC killed Peter Pan on day 44. Apparently, when he bit the fake hand looming at him in their assessment test his fate was sealed. They cited that fact as an excuse to kill him. Never mind that the test is widely known to prove nothing or that Peter Pan’s skull had been fractured, possibly by a hand coming at him, or a boot. Even abused dogs that remain friendly and gentle aren’t given a chance at ACC.

Angel [128825]: 7 years old; killed May 17. Angel, a long-term stay and a “shelter scholar,” had been at ACC four years earlier, surrendered by his family, then reclaimed. Described as friendly and affectionate, he happily lived with a young child and liked to follow his family from room to room.

ACC said, “Angel is highly responsive to training, quickly learns new cues, and is social with staff.” Volunteers adored him. At the beginning of his stay at ACC one wrote, “Angel jumps into Santa’s lap and stays there for the duration of our time outside with him. He relishes some time out of the pop-up crate he’s been housed in for the last two and a half weeks. There, he takes our treats gently and listens to us talk about how he indeed embodies his name, a real angel on earth. A sweet and gentle cherub indeed.”

Much later in his stay, another volunteer wrote, “One on one, I found Angel to be the most perfect and charming gentleman. He walks beautifully on leash, checks in with me regularly, and takes treats delicately from my hand. In the play yard, Angel stays close to me, leaning in to solicit affection and cheddar cheese from my treat pouch. Naturally I oblige because he deserves all the delicious things this world has to offer and so much more. It’s utterly heartbreaking to see him look so defeated and hopeless as each day of uncertainty goes by.”

Dr. Brennen’s vet team killed Angel on day 167.

Chalupa [253732]: age unknown; killed May 17. Chalupa was found on May 5 and killed 12 days later, a silent kill. ACC says he bit a handler’s hand there. Lots of dogs are fostered and adopted after biting, but Chalupa was never given a chance to be placed.

Newton [253993]: 12 years old; killed May 17. Newton was killed nine days after he was found on the streets. He had a foreign body obstruction in his stomach. Instead of removing it, Dr. Brennen and company killed him.

ACC said he came in tail wagging, allowed all handling. During his “behavior assessment,” he scrambled to the door to try to exit when the handler attempted to make contact with him. They noted that as a strike against him. But he soon warmed up to handlers. He did well around other dogs, was easily leashed and walked.

When Newton got very sick, began vomiting continuously, ACC wrote, “Given the advanced age of Newton, the extensive continuous vomiting and the likelihood of a gastric FB [foreign body], reaching out to NH [New Hope] with plea for further work up and possible abdominal exploratory. If no placement established, EHR [euthanasia] recommended.”

In essence, ACC asked New Hope partners — other rescue organizations — to take Newton off their hands and do the surgery needed. Even then, they didn’t give the rescues any time to help, killing Newton the same day they sent out their “plea.”

Skippers [252891]: 2 years old; killed May 19. Skippers, a stray, came in highly social and then became overwhelmed, scared and reactive to other dogs when going in and out of his kennel.

He did better when outside of the facility, walking well on leash. Although nervous he remained friendly with staff — a beautiful boy in search of toys, he jumped into the toy bin to pick the best one.

ACC killed Skippers on day 24.

Bleu [254148]: 4 years old; killed May 19. ACC killed beautiful Bleu just nine days after he arrived. The ostensible reason: leash biting. Bleu’s human said he was an affectionate dog, loved belly rubs and kisses, toys, and bananas with peanut butter. He lived with a child and another dog, was playful with strangers and kids. His family surrendered Bleu because they could no longer afford his care.

During his time at ACC, they made notes on only two of the days he was there, the day of his intake and the day after. Bleu was a leash-biter, and when he bit the leash on intake, ACC put him on their favorite sedatives — Trazodone, Gabapentin, and Clonidine. How the drugs affected him we don’t know. There are no notes.

Barbara [251536]: 1 year old; killed May 21. Her human said Barbara was a “lap dog who sleeps a lot on you.” No wonder she was not a fan of the cat in her home. They also said, she’s “extremely affectionate, very cuddly, and eager to please! She loves to tear up plushies, squeakers, and crinkly toys.”

At ACC Barbara was loose, wiggly, and wagging. Easily leashed, she did well on walks and played fetch nicely — their test to see if she would resource-guard the ball. She sought affection from her handlers and pets.

The only excuse they could find to kill her is that she barked and growled on intake. ACC killed Barbara on day 41.

Acai [253442]: 6 years old; killed May 21. In his video, Acai, a stray, looks scared and hopeful at the same time. A volunteer said, “I met Acai on a nearby stoop and his big handsome head drew me in immediately as I walked down the block towards him. He posed for his photos dutifully, but was enraptured by the toys I used to gain his focus. He hopped to catch them and then squeaked away in this little alcove, before we took a stroll back to the yard.”

Toys got Acai in trouble. He would sometimes screech at a person holding the toy and jump too much get them. He wouldn’t trade his ball for cheese. Their report of successfully hiding toys from him speaks volumes about the nature of their “care.”

Clearly, toys were a comfort to Acai. He also had several fractured teeth that could be causing pain. How about just give the sad boy his toy and let him keep it? ACC killed Acai on day 21.

Sasha [229472]: 2 years old; killed May 21. Returned from foster care on May 6, Sasha was put on health department hold, which is usually for bites.

Sasha had been in the ACC system for almost a year when they killed her without attempting to find another foster.

Known as a super silly girl, flopping over for belly rubs was Sasha’s signature move. She died another ACC silent kill victim.

Nyla [252503]: 4 years old; killed May 25. Nyla, rehomed in January and described as social and friendly with all, including strangers, kids, and other dogs, was surrendered because her new family said they didn’t have time for her. On intake, ACC said she was relaxed and seeking affection. They spayed her shortly after she arrived.

“Nyla is a dog that immediately just lights me up,” a volunteer said. “On a hard day, she will bring joy, silliness, and all the cuddles you could dream of. When I was getting tired after walking dogs for six hours at the shelter, I got to meet Nyla and she rejuvenated all my energy. Her personality is just magnetic and I can’t bear to put her back in her small kennel.”

Nyla was easily leashed and cooperative, politely returning the ball when playing fetch. They killed Nyla on day 31 for “behavior problems”— not because of anything she did wrong at ACC, but because of a reported bite to someone’s finger in her previous home.

Mikey [252968]: 4 years old; killed May 27. Mikey, brought in by the police who found him roaming the streets, was described by them as very friendly and outgoing. His skin issues were so severe he had lesions across his body, open wounds on his face, in addition to an ear infection.

A volunteer wrote, “As I watch back my videos of Mikey, I hear myself saying “Mikey!!” And You’re a good boy” over and over again. I say that a lot at the shelter. One, because it’s filled with good boys and good girls. And, two, because sometimes dogs come in that make me think they haven’t been told this enough or maybe even ever … Still, Mikey stays optimistic. He is loose and wiggly and oh so playful. In fact, it’s so hard to get good video of him because he’s a blur of happiness. He loves toys and seems to TREASURE the fish plushy we have to offer him. No matter what path Mikey’s trajectory takes, at least he will know that someone thought he is a VERY GOOD BOY!”

Mikey’s video does show his very good nature and how happy he was with his fish plushy. ACC killed the very good boy Mikey on day 30.

Casserole [253567]: 2 years old; killed May 27. Casserole, a stray, kissed the hands of staff on intake, wagging his tail and toe tapping, so happy to be off the streets. He wasn’t bothered by other dogs there, even when they growled and bared their teeth at him. We don’t know his history, but he had a long scar on the back of his neck.

A volunteer writes, “It didn’t take long for Casserole to roll over and show us his belly. Just a short play sesh in the unusually hot spring heat and he was fully ‘baked.’ We hope that we can entice him to get in the pool with a toy (we find out quickly that he LOVEs stuffies) but he’d rather cool off by laying on his side, tongue lolling. Our videos are filled with comments about how handsome he is and how much we like him and though remarks such as these are common with dogs we meet in the shelter, they are nonetheless true.”

ACC killed Casserole on day 26 for leash biting — their excuse for a behavior problem.

Coby [253880]: 5 years old; killed May 27. Coby’s owner said their child and Coby never got along. Coby bit the child’s finger. The owner called the police to have Coby taken away and left no information about him.

At ACC, Coby soon got in trouble for jumping up at handlers and biting their treat pouch. Easily leashed, Coby ignored passersby, including dogs, on the streets. In the play yard, he was truly joyful— wiggly and exuberant, happy to be pet.

But mostly, ACC ignored him, never even giving him a behavior assessment. They also didn’t make a video, decreasing his chance of finding a home. ACC killed Coby on day 21.

Phantom [253510]: 5 years old; killed May 27. Phantom was brought in stray, reportedly for fighting with dogs on the street. No one said who started the fight; ACC admitted the incident was “very vague.” Naming him Phantom was their first clue as to his fate. He was a dead dog walking.

ACC said Phantom on intake was wagging his tail, sought attention from staff, and sat for pets. During his stay, he was easily leashed, thoroughly enjoyed enrichment games (and learned fast), became highly social with handlers. Their last note on Phantom, five days before they killed him said, “Phantom was lying down at back of kennel. As handler opened door Phantom came to the front where he was easily leashed and pulled from kennel. Phantom was taken to backyard. During his walk time Phantom appeared lethargic often coughing. Handler tried to engage in some pattern games but Phantom was uninterested. He was returned to kennel with no issue.”

Surely, Phantom, coughing and lethargic, was sick with CIRDC, which is endemic at always-unsanitary ACC, but there are no notes after that day. They killed Phantom on day 26.

Miss Bee [255140]: age unknown; killed May 28. On Miss Bee’s lost and found record it says sex unknown, age not listed.

Miss Bee was found on May 22 and never listed for foster or adoption, another silent kill.

Cozine [253497]: 3 years old; killed May 29. Notes on stray pup Cozine are sparse. ACC said he was social but conflicted. Because he flinched once when touched? That’s the only clue in their notes. They did say that they, “Recommend topical treatments for skin once dog is placed, P [Patient] may need continued support for potential underlying allergies once placed.” Why wait?

A volunteer wrote, “I only got to meet Cozine this weekend, after he arrived as a stray a few weeks ago. Cozine has struggled to acclimate to the shelter but when we met him we were lucky to see his social side. He is every bit as handsome as he looks in his videos and photos, with a big head split gray and white. The moment I offer him a toy, he picks it up and I don’t think he lets it go for the rest of our time together! We joke that it’s his emotional support stuffy and in his situation you can’t blame him for needing a little support. For all his struggles at the shelter Cozine is social with us, coming right up to me to be pet and curving into our legs.”

Cozine’s video doesn’t show a conflicted dog. It does reveal how important that stuffy was to him — and also his endearing head tilt.

ACC killed Cozine on day 29.

Diesel [255378]: 8 years old; killed May 29. Diesel, a large male dog, was found on May 26 and killed three days later, a silent kill.

ACC never listed Diesel for foster or adoption. Their lost and found record did not include a photo.

Cinnamon [255398]: 16 years old; killed May 29. Cinnamon was found on May 26 and never listed for foster or adoption, a silent kill.

ACC says he was 16, though they’ve been known to get ages wrong.

Brown [252445]: 4 years old; killed May 30. If you watch Brown’s video, two things stand out — Brown’s soft eyes and his goofy and endearing smile. He came to ACC an underweight stray, fearful at first but became more relaxed and confident over time.

A volunteer says, Brown was “the sweetest compact low-rider at 40 pounds. He has the cutest little smiley face and honestly, I couldn’t stop smiling back at him. Brown can be a bit fearful and shy, so he appreciates slow introductions to new people and places. But once he feels safe, his gentle side starts to shine. During our time together, he kept wagging his tail, leaned into his handler for snuggles, and took treats so softly. Brown may need a little patience, but he has so much love to give“

Patience? ACC doesn’t do patience; they killed Brown on day 43.

Sunny [255119]: 8 years old; killed May 30. Found May 22, Sunny, a small male dog, was never listed for foster or adoption, a silent kill.

ACC’s lost and found record did not include a photo.

Gomez [253742]: 4 years old; killed May 31. Gomez was found wandering in the park with a dog they named Morticia. Morticia found a home. Gomez did not. As his video shows, his expressive face signaled his worry and confusion.

“When I met Gomez,” a volunteer said, “he was still shy and aloof, as if he were trying to navigate this unfamiliar and overwhelming situation. Still, he walked beautifully by staff’s side and accepted gentle pets. I saw a similar aloofness in Morticia when I first met her, and with more time, she slowly began to show more of herself. I believe this block-headed, Oreo-faced boy just needs that same chance. Gomez may need more time to reveal his true personality, but I’m hopeful that once he feels safe, he’ll be as sweet as an Oreo cookie can be.”

With time, Gomez did warm up, making friends with staff. But he didn’t get enough time to find a home; ACC killed Gomez on day 27.

Kwik [251306]: 1 year old; killed May 31. Kwik, a volunteer said, was “a social, treat-motivated boy who enjoys interacting with people once he feels comfortable … When I spent time with him in the park, he was very sweet and stayed engaged with me. Kwik is still very much a puppy, curious, playful, and loves treats and toys. He listens well to the ‘sit’ cue and walks beautifully on leash.”

A stray, Kwik was happiest out in the yard and on walks, a fan of being up close and personal — licking faces and hands. They neutered Kwik in April and killed him day 58.

Todo [254894]: 8 years old; killed May 31. Todo, a small male dog, was found on May 19 and never listed for foster/placement, a silent kill.

There was no photo in Todo’s lost and found record.

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We take names. We step on toes. We bring receipts.

Subscribe to The Scoop New York

NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for. Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Xhylo [255312]: 3 years old; killed August 3. Xhylo’s family could no longer afford to care for her.

A volunteer writes, “She ‘always remembers her way home’ is one of the saddest owner surrender notes I’ve read in a long time. Many of us have dogs who know which corner to turn and which door belongs to them — their home. Xhylo lost all that a few weeks ago, and at 3 years old her world has been turned upside down. In her original home she was fearful of strangers, and of course that’s continued at the shelter. She moves away from us at times, flinches at surprising noises, and watches everything around her quietly and alertly. Her chocolate brown eyes soften when she finds out about our peanut butter, and her former guardian describes her as a cuddle monster. While we don’t see her cuddle monster side she relaxes into some head scratches.“

Xhylo was timid and often trembling at ACC, but cooperative. She had a bad case of CIRDC, sick for four weeks.

The sad scared eyes of Xhylos and Cobra (also killed and memorialized below) should have saved them. It didn’t. Dr. Robin Brennen’s vet team killed Xhylo on day 72.

George [258644]: 7 years old; killed August 3. George’s human said he was a big cuddle bug who liked to give kisses. At ACC, he was wiggly and wagging, easily leashed, responsive to and walked next to handlers when outside.

Cleaning his ears due to an infection, his owner admits he pushed the tool too deep. George yelped and bit in response.

As volunteers who made his video said, he was sweet, smart, and well-mannered, proud to show off his tricks. Regardless, ACC exterminated George on day 34, using that bite as their excuse to kill a dog who had been both social and cooperative during his time there.

Callie [261011]: 5 years old; killed August 3. Callie was killed by ACC five days after she was found.

A silent kill, Callie was never listed for foster or adoption. There are no available public records after intake to ACC so we know nothing about her.

Dipity [251826]: 6 years old; killed August 5. Dipity, who was found in a park, was a “lovable, dorky hilarious potato,” who stole the hearts of volunteers.

“Dipity is one of those dogs who somehow makes everything he does look adorably hilarious,” said one volunteer. “His funny movements, facial expressions, the way he struts, and his reactions to everything always make me laugh. He is house-trained and a very good walker. Dipity goes about his business without reacting to dogs or people passing by. He is friendly, takes treats gently, and loves being petted. He is definitely not shy about leaning his whole body into you when he wants more affection.” Dipity’s video proves the point.

Another volunteer said Dipity “is a total gem, and the most gentle, loving pup you’ll ever meet. He’s a bit under the weather with a few health issues, including a hind leg limp, but that never seems to stop this wonderful pup from walking with you, hugging you or jumping up and cuddling with you on a backyard bench. Dipity may be the most affectionate, loving pup at the shelter. He is simply magnificent. Please take him home if you think you have enough love to match his in return.”

On borough breaks, day trips outside of ACC with volunteers, Dipity never failed to impress. One said, “Dipity is a very happy boy. He is also the perfect walking buddy. He has great leash manners, is interested and friendly with other dogs without being aggressive, and has a huge smile and a tail that never stops wagging — especially when being offered treats! We walked for hours through the park and he never pulled, never barked, and never chased after any animals. He was so happy to meet other people and soaked up all attention and skritches. After hours of walking, we sat on a bench where he calmly fell asleep for a long time, just happy to have company outside in the shade. He’s a very sweet boy.”

Another borough break volunteer wrote that they “went to the Barking Dog around lunchtime … He got plenty of compliments there for his good behavior and relaxed nature. He loved getting scratches and used any surface (usually me) as a scratching post. Dipity is an amazing, lovable dog who will easily adapt to whatever environment he is in. A GEM!!!”

Because Dipity was at one time listed at risk of “euthanasia” due to his medical condition, we have notes from his medical exams. The amazing Dipity was sick from the start of his stay at ACC. In addition to his limp, he had hematuria — bloody urine — possibly due to an enlarged prostate. After being neutered, which shrinks the prostate, he continued to piss bloody urine for two-plus months. When he was removed from ACC’s at risk list on June 23, public access to his medical notes ended. It’s unclear whether the issue was ever resolved. At one point, they suspected he may have had a tumor.

After many months at ACC, Dipity is reported to have bit someone on July 22 and was placed on hold by for 10 days as required by law. When taken off hold, ACC decided not to list him again for adoption or foster. Instead, they silent-killed Dipity, remembered as “the most affectionate, loving pup at the shelter,” on day 117.

Handyman [260293]: 4 years old; killed August 5. Handyman was found stray. ACC wrote, “Upon intake: Handyman was wonderful! Very polite, social and friendly. He would approach softly for pets and kisses and took treats gently. He laid on his back for belly rubs while waiting in the lobby and knows ‘sit.’ He jumped up for hugs when encouraged. He was easily leashed and allowed all handling.”

Two days later he was made TDO (“transfer door only”) due to incessantly jumping up on handlers, which means he was no longer let out of his kennel for walks, play, or potty breaks. The picture above was the only one they took, an indication of how hard they tried to find him a home.

After five days of being confined to his kennel, they made one note on him: “Handyman is at the back of the kennel sleeping soundly. Handler calls towards him and he remains sleeping in the kennel. Treats are tossed and he opens his eyes. Handyman remains lying down in kennel. A treat is tossed closer to him and he eats the treat. He stares at the handler with a neutral body. The interaction is then ended.”

“The interaction is then ended” may be one of the saddest notes at ACC for many dogs. ACC killed Handyman on day 17 after confining him to his kennel for two weeks.

From The Scoop New York

Grumble [260851]: 3 years old; killed August 5. First, how do you expect to get a dog fostered or adopted when you give them the name “Grumble”?

Grumble, a stray, arrived cooperative, soliciting pets. ACC said he was conflicted. He solicited attention on occasion and also retreated from it. During his behavior assessment they noted he approached several handlers nudging their hand to solicit petting before walking away. He didn’t like his hind end being touched and soon became very scared. ACC all but ignored him and killed the beautiful dog they thoughtlessly saddled with a contemptuous name on day 10.

Maximo [260800]: 3 years old; killed August 5. There is no photo of him. According to our notes, his name was Maximo and he was seized from a home on July 27.

Maximo’s lost and found record didn’t include a photo. Then his lost and found record was removed when ACC killed him nine days later.

Maximo was never listed for foster or adoption, a silent kill.

Flash [258526]: 2 years old; killed August 7. A volunteer writes, “This sweet face, those big bunny ears, and the soft eyes all belong to Flash. He arrived a few weeks ago with a wound on his face and no other information after being dropped off at a police precinct. He’s been timid, shrinking to the back of his kennel with a tucked tail in his early days. But by all accounts he’s warmed well to friends at the shelter, interacting with a wiggly and loose body.”

When Flash arrived, the wound on his face was an inch long, scabbed over and starting to scar. Although scared and trembling at first, he soon became braver. Easily leashed, he did well on walks, was wiggly and solicited pets.

Sixteen days after his arrival a disturbing incident was noted by ACC, “Flash is observed to be tethered to the fence by one ACS handler and has another leash on that is being held by another ACS handler. When the handler initially saw this from across two streets, Flash was still struggling, pulling against the second rope. By the time the handler arrived, he was laying on the ground with blood dripping down his nose and out of his mouth. The ACS handler reported that Flash had been sniffing their leg and knee and that he lunged at them. The handler will approach from the side and baby talk him while loosening up the ropes. He is unresponsive although his eyes are open and he will periodically wag his tail lightly against the ground as the handler speaks to him. A hook is used to loosen up the leashes as one of the leashes is stuck underneath his leg and they are both tight. Once they are loosened he will begin to get up and is coaxed forward. He will walk a few steps and then stops so the handler uses mild leash pressure to guide him forward. He will continue to walk all the way to his kennel, occasionally turning around with a loose and wiggly frame towards the handler. The leash rings are clipped and he is secured safely in kennel.”

In other words, it appears ACC staffers bound a 40-pound dog in ropes that were so tight, so tangled, or both, that he was left prostrate on the ground unable to move and bleeding from his nose and mouth.

And yet, there are no medical records to indicate Flash was examined after this incident. It was after this that ACC began to make notes about him biting the leash (which is really a rope).

Despite the abuse he suffered at the hands of ACC, Flash remained wiggly and social. It didn’t matter. ACC killed Flash on day 40.

Cobra [259421]: 5 years old; killed August 8. Cobra, a very thin stray pup, was timid and fearful. He was never defensive/aggressive, but according to ACC he increasingly became mouthy when stuck in his kennel, biting at hands. Their daily notes back up their claim of biting on just one occasion when he nipped a finger (no broken skin) while being leashed.

Cobra did well on walks, ignoring dogs and passersby, sat for treats. Over time, as he grew more comfortable, he began leaning in for pets.

Cobra was learning to relax, but ACC didn’t give a shy dog the time necessary to feel truly safe. They killed Cobra on day 29.

Bella Dancerella [261568]: 9 years old; killed August 8. Bella Dancerella’s listing said she had medical issues, but didn’t specify what they were.

ACC killed her about five to six days after arrival — a silent kill — without specifying what her medical issues were or why they killed her.

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We take names. We step on toes. We bring receipts.

Subscribe to The Scoop New York

NYC ACC KILLS, published by TSNY, enumerates and memorializes adoptable cats and dogs who were nonetheless exterminated by Animal Care Centers of New York City.

Every week, NYC ACC KILLS subscribers receive The Weekly Carnage: bios, photos and videos of adoptable cats and dogs known to be recent ACC victims. Subscribers also get monthly memoriam posts that include ACC data summaries along with an updated compendium of animals whose lives were ended by ACC that month. Videos from current and prior months may also be found on The Scoop New York’s YouTube channel.

For more New York companion animal news, follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media.

About NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts

Like virtually all New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin, NYC ACC staff as a rule do not respond to uncomfortable questions concerning the kill pound they’re responsible for. Information in NYC ACC KILLS memoriam posts, therefore, is drawn from reader tips, records ACC has chosen or is required to make public, and the ACC “at-risk outcomes” list.

As evidenced by its monthly and annual outcome data reports, ACC kills far more cats and dogs than appear on the at-risk list. ACC exterminates many healthy and adoptable cats and dogs without first offering them for adoption. Victims of this practice are known among advocates as “silent kills.”

Under direction from higher-ups including chief DVM Robin Brennen, ACC will often spay or neuter a cat or dog only to exterminate her or him during recovery, or soon after. This practice is known as “spay-neuter-kill.”

Known silent kills and spay-neuter-kill victims are identified as such by NYC ACC KILLS.

Since cats are underrepresented on ACC’s “at-risk outcomes” list, they are also underrepresented here.

Due to ACC obfuscation and gaps in record-keeping, memoriam posts are, sadly, bound to be incomplete. The Scoop New York continually adds names and images of ACC victims to NYC ACC KILLS as we find them. Follow NYC ACC KILLS and The Scoop New York on social media for updates.

If you’re an NYC ACC networker or volunteer and would like to contribute information on exterminated cats and dogs, or share your experience working with ACC, we want to hear from you. Discretion guaranteed.

A note about names: Many animals come to NYC ACC with unknown histories, including their names. In addition, ACC does not always use the name a cat or dog is accustomed to, even if the agency knows what it is. As a result, many animals exterminated by ACC are never properly identified. Unfortunately, for the most part NYC ACC KILLS has only the names provided by ACC, even if those names are incorrect or nonsensical. ACC-assigned names are presented here without quotation marks unless TSNY can confirm an animal was known by a different name when admitted to ACC.

ACC operates under putative supervision by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which endorses the publicly-funded killing of healthy and adoptable cats and dogs at will and with impunity.

In memoriam

Hoagie and Kuki [260548 and 260549]: 3 months old; killed July 26. Five underweight and dehydrated 3-month-old puppies were found on July 23.

ACC killed Hoagie (a boy) and Kuki (a girl), who they say had parvovirus, on the 26th. Because they were silent kills, there are no public records to document their condition.

Hoagie and Kuki’s three litter mates were pulled from ACC by a rescue organization to get medical treatment they likely wouldn’t have received at ACC.

Fly Guy [259382]: age unknown; killed July 28. Fly Guy, a German shepherd, came to ACC starving, emaciated, with patches of missing fur. Listed as a “junior” in lost and found records, he was probably a puppy.

ACC never listed him for foster or adoption. They killed Fly Guy 18 days after arrival. Since he was a silent kill, we know nothing about him.

Rocket [260065]: 3 years old; killed July 29. Rocket, an underweight stray, allowed all handling on intake. He did well on walks, ignoring other dogs and people, with a loose body and an occasionally wagging tail.

What he really didn’t want to do was go back in his kennel. So ACC decided to just keep him there; they made him TDO [transfer door only] on the 23rd and didn’t let him out of his kennel at all. He was their prisoner, which must have been torture for a German shepherd.

ACC killed Rocket on day 13.

Timba [259226]: 4 years old; killed July 29. Timba’s family left him at ACC after four years of being their pup because he was too big for their home. They said he was a very loyal dog.

Timba shut down at ACC; trembling every time handlers opened the door to his kennel. He didn’t want to be leashed but with time, he got braver and cooperated with leashing.

Regardless, ACC killed him day 22.

Jovan [256859]: 3 years old; killed July 29. Jovan arrived at ACC fearful, but they said he made steady progress, was gaining confidence, warmed up fairly quickly, and showed that he wanted to connect with the people around him.

It was reported that he was put on DOH (Department of Health) hold, presumably for a nip or bite at the shelter.

When Jovan came off hold, ACC did not re-list him for foster or adoption. He was killed on day 51, a silent kill.

Bricks [254382]: 1 year old; killed July 30. Bricks’ human, who was ill and couldn’t care for him any more, said he was a very lovable dog.

On intake, Bricks was wiggly, would socially jump on staff and allowed all handling. A volunteer who walked Bricks often wrote, “Quiet 1 yr old Bricks waits patiently for you to notice him and take him out. Bricks has the friendliest, most lovable face and huggable body. His smile feels like a Disney movie ... Bricks is so easy to leash and walk, is very responsive to his handler, and is a big sniffer. What a love!”

On another occasion they wrote, “What an absolutely delightful pup. So easy to leash and exit the kennel. Bricks actually play-bowed in the elevator, lay down and asked me for belly rubs on our way down to the first floor. So hilarious and cute! Bricks is a happy guy and so lovely to walk. He loves treats and your kind words and affection. What a doll of a pup.“

When Bricks began occasionally biting the leash on return to his kennel and barking once inside it, ACC loaded this “doll of a pup” with sedatives and killed him on day 57.

Hugh Morris [257369]: 1 year old; killed July 30. Hugh Morris, ACC wrote after his medical exam, “Was happy and confident when he got in the room but the muzzle really took the wind out of his sails. For such a big guy, he was pretty soft.”

Pretty much all they did was take the wind out of his sails. They killed his sister, Abigail. He caught pneumonia.

Easily leashed, walked well, checked in with handlers and ignored other dogs — Hugh Morris went from happy and wiggly to howling and crying. He became more dog-reactive over time, and for this they killed him on day 45.

A networker who helps find fosters and adopters wrote that he was ignored by ACC for 30 days before he received new photos. There was one photo, a shitty one, on his profile.

A word from The Scoop New York

From the premiere episode of the NYC DOH ACC Puppy/Kitten Death Row Show: TSNY Editor Brad Aaron explains why “animal lover” electeds like the New York City Council “animal welfare” chair look the other way as NYC ACC abuses and kills.

Subscribe to The Scoop New York

Subscribe to The Scoop New York to catch our next full installment live or at your leisure via The Weekly Poop or the Substack app.

Toose [254268]: 3 years old; killed July 30. Toose, his family said, takes time to warm up but once he does he is very affectionate. That proved true at ACC.

“On our first walks,” a volunteer said, “he kept his distance, tail tucked, and his eyes full of uncertainty. Then one day, out of nowhere, he burst out into zoomies right there on the street, then casually resumed our stroll down the block as if nothing had happened! Since then, he’s continued to come out of his shell, growing more relaxed on walks and greeting me with a waggy tail when I open his crate door.

“Another volunteer recently had an even bigger breakthrough in the yard. After plenty of polite aloofness, Toose suddenly lit up when they tossed him a toy, galloping after it, and stopping to happily play along the way back … Shelter life is understandably overwhelming for him but we’ve already seen glimpses of his sweet and playful personality. With time and patience, I think his new family will find exactly what his previous owner described: a very affectionate dog who enjoys lounging around wherever his people are.”

Toose was one of many dogs living in a too-small pop up crate. Medically, Toose had a difficult time at ACC. In addition to lingering CIRDC he went into anaphylactic shock with hives and dermatitis in June. He also had an ear injury they attributed to “self-trauma” due to severe inflammation in his ear canal. He was in pain.

ACC killed Toose on day 59.

Buster [260111]: 7 years old; killed July 30. Tied up and abandoned then catch-poled to haul her in to ACC, Buster was a very scared stray girl. The name was not the last of the indignities.

They put her on the maximum dose of Trazodone. They didn’t titrate the dosage over time as recommended, and they didn’t consider whether the medication was having a paradoxical effect, increasing her agitation instead of calming her. Then they added a near maximum dosage of Clonidine.

That’s what substitutes for care at ACC. That and throwing treats into Buster’s kennel.

They took one photo only and killed Buster on day 13.

Rocki [264084]: 6 years old; killed July 31. Rocki, an eight-pound male cat, was never listed on the “at-risk” list for placement.

A silent kill, we know nothing about him.

Rambo [260297]: 1 year; killed July 31. Rambo was severely dehydrated, with possible kidney damage.

ACC gave a 24-hour deadline for a rescue organization to save him, then killed Rambo on day three, when the three-day hold for stray pets was complete.

Cam Cam [258790]: 3 years old; killed July 31. Cam Cam, a stray, came to ACC with heatstroke.

A volunteer wrote, “We met Cam Cam shortly after his arrival, but in three short weeks he’s already at risk. Watching him in our videos, it’s no shock he had a hard time acclimating. The near constant barking in the kennels below the yards echo up, distracting him from what I imagine would normally be fun for him. He’s interested in the toys we offer, even chasing some and bringing them back. But then a car blares their horn, or the cacophony of dogs barking pull him out of focus, and worry him. I get it — this is not an easy place to thrive. So we admire the smudge over his eye, and smile when he hops onto a lap for a better vantage point and a little comfort, but mostly ache for how this poor guy has ended up in this place.”

Cam Cam was scared at ACC but cooperative. Didn’t matter. The good Dr. Brennen had him exterminated on day 30.

Nino Bell [259181]: 1 year old; killed July 31. Nino Bell saw his human leave in a stretcher and never return.

He was a confused, scared puppy, killed by ACC for jumping too much and occasionally head whipping. Never mind that he was also wiggly, easily leashed, good on walks, and cooperative.

ACC all but ignored Nino Bell and killed him on day 25.

Maya [257189]: 2 years old; killed July 31. An exuberant stray, Maya, who was reactive to other dogs at the shelter, was quickly put on all three of Dr. Brennen’s favorite human-grade sedatives to quiet her.

Reading their notes on Maya, it’s reasonable to question whether that helped or instead had the opposite effect, agitating her more.

It got worse for Maya. Soon after being put on meds, she was spayed when had she had CIRDC, a risky procedure.

A beautiful, wiggly, and very social pup, Maya was killed on day 49.

Pops [260824]: age unknown; killed August 1. ACC killed Pops on day five, a silent kill.

Pops’ age and sex was listed as unknown in their lost and found record. They may have been a boy; they may have been old, as the name implies.

We don’t know. New Yorkers who pay ACC staff are not meant to know or notice the cats and dogs they kill behind locked doors.

Too bad for ACC: We do.

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