From a rescue standpoint, I don't test everyone who comes in and I especially don't test kittens beecause I consider the tests unreliable when the kittens are so young. I also don't euthanize a healthy animal on the basis of a test result ever.
One shelter I work with tests before transport to a rescue and for this I am eternally grateful. They make my job much easier. One cat bound for me tested FeLV+ before transport and I was able to place her in an only cat foster home. (Esprit is still looking for that forever home, everyone. Keep her in mind.)
Adults are usually tested before they arrive. Kittens are tested when they are old enough for spay/neuter. I always give adopters what medical records exist and specify what tests have been performed. In California FIV and FeLV testing is the norm with rescue groups but rarely done by shelters.
>
> I believe I have a relatively good understanding
> of FelV from what I've learned with Pekoe and Digby.
> One of the big questions I have, from those of you
> that do rescue work and shelter volunteering is - Do
> you test ALL cats that come into the shelter, or
> just the "high risk" ones?????? Guess I'm just
> second-guessing my comprehension right now. My
> husband and I feel that these people just don't get
> it yet, and we want them to stop contacting us!
>
> I would really appreciate your views on the
> SPCA's statements.
>
> Thanks so much,
> Marlene (still missing Pekoe & Digby .....)
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