Humane Salina Distances Itself From Protests, Reaffirms Fact-Driven Advocacy Following Charges

Humane Salina is reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability, and fact-based advocacy following the filing of animal cruelty charges in Saline County against two shelter staff members.

Humane Salina said its work has focused on gathering and sharing documented information through open records requests, public meetings, and communication with news organizations to ensure the public remains informed about issues involving animal care and operations at the Salina animal shelter.

Over the past several months, members of Humane Salina have regularly attended animal advisory board meetings and Salina City Commission meetings, submitted Kansas Open Records Act requests, and compiled records they believe raise serious concerns about shelter practices, oversight, and accountability.

The group said its advocacy has been rooted in verifiable documentation and public participation, not speculation or emotion.

“Humane Salina is committed to advocating for the welfare of animals in our community through factual, documented information obtained through open records,” the group said in a statement. “Our goal is simple: ensure that what has happened is fully acknowledged, that meaningful changes are made, and that it never happens again.”

Humane Salina also made clear that it is not participating in any protest activity and is not affiliated with BSL, a separate group that has been active in Salina following its effort to overturn breed-specific legislation through a special election.

While Humane Salina said it respects the right of others to exercise free speech as they choose, the group said its own approach will remain focused on civil, constructive, and fact-driven engagement.

That includes speaking during Salina City Commission meetings, sharing information through social media, continuing open records efforts, and working through established public channels to maintain transparency and a clear public record.

Humane Salina said it expects city officials to take the documented concerns seriously and respond with the level of accountability the public deserves.

The group said it will continue pushing for full acknowledgment of what occurred, meaningful reforms, and the highest standard of care for animals in the community.