By: NICOLAS FIERRO
Salina Post
The Salina Animal Shelter has released a statement regarding a recent Kansas Department of Agriculture re-inspection that was deemed "satisfactory."
According to the shelter, they released in statement that they took "immediate action" following the January inspection that was deemed "non-compliant" in several areas.
Those areas included:
- Unsecured food containers.
- Improper and undocumented euthanization methods/procedures.
- No supervision of euthanizations
- Lack of authorization and improper dosages to prescribe medications to certain animals.
- Using intracardiac (IC) injection ("heart stick") on dogs without sedation.
Members of the public have been furious with the management and oversight of the animal shelter. Some have even mentioned they want Prairie Paws to manage the shelter.
According to Mayor Mike Hoppock and City Manager Jacob Wood, the City Commission will conduct a study session on Monday, March 23 to discuss about a possible partnership and to review those options for the shelter.
Moreover, the Salina Police Department are investigating the animal shelter. Salina Post has reached out for a comment over the investigation, but was told a press release will be published.
Other investigations include the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Kansas Attorney General's Office.
Salina Post has also spoken with Salina Parks and Recreation Operations Superintendent/Manager of the Animal Shelter, Andrea Murphy and Animal Shelter Director, Monique Hawley to conduct an interview.
The response from Murphy was they were told by the City Manager's office to not give any comments until the study session on March 23.
The following is the statement from the City of Salina:
The City of Salina is pleased to announce that the Salina Animal Shelter has received a “Satisfactory” rating following a re-inspection conducted by the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) on March 17, 2026.
This re-inspection was conducted after a previous inspection in January identified areas requiring improvement. Shelter leadership and staff took immediate action to address all noted concerns, demonstrating a strong commitment to animal welfare, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement.
The City of Salina acknowledges the public interest following the January inspection and appreciates the community’s concern for animal welfare. The re-inspection results demonstrate that the shelter responded quickly, responsibly, and effectively to all findings.
According to the official KDA report, the facility’s result was deemed satisfactory.
During the re-inspection:
· Previously identified issues were corrected or actively addressed
· Facility and equipment updates were implemented, including replacement of worn items.
· Records and documentation were verified as complete and compliant.
· Veterinary oversight and medication documentation were confirmed to meet state requirements.
The report also noted that:
· All food storage met proper standards.
· Required records were appropriately maintained.
· Euthanasia procedures were performed under veterinary authorization.
· The shelter’s Veterinary Care Form is current and valid through 2027.
Shelter staff worked closely with state inspectors throughout the process, ensuring transparency and accountability every step of the way.
The Salina Animal Shelter remains focused on continuous improvement and maintaining the highest standards of care. The shelter will continue working collaboratively with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and veterinary partners to ensure compliance with all state regulations.