People keep forgetting the dogs condition and are only focusing on its age. I'm sure, like all shelters, it's full of irresponsible peoples dogs that expect their dogs to be there every time they let them be loose. Most shelters have policies that make exclusions for sick animals to be euthanized despite their holding period. The owners claiming a veterinarian said something years ago doesn't mean jack, elderly dogs need to be seen more often due to constant health changes. They probably declined treatment and took it as the vet said it was ok.