I AM very disappointed by the kill rates at the RSPCA shelters in NSW. Other open-admission pounds have very much lower rates. I read the story on Facebook of Max (Justice4Max) the dog, who was put down at the RSPCA Rutherford even though the owners were coming to get him (“Life or death” Herald 17/10). I am terrified that if one of my dogs got out and was taken there they could be killed before I could get them.

I know they would be so scared that they would fail the temperament test. I don’t understand why they won’t work with rescue groups to help save lives. I’m getting the impression that they are more concerned about money. I think the RSPCA should spend less money on self-promotion and offer free or cheap pet desexing instead. I would also like to see a big public awareness campaign encouraging early desexing of pets. That really would be saving lives.

Tess Stephens, Redhead