THE ETHICIST TAP : ANIMAL CHARITIES [ Q ]

My husband and I support several animal charities and shelters in our area, mostly through financial donations.

While most seem well-run, one in particular has raised concerns. It has been in the local news for  mistreating staff members and volunteers. 

This same shelter also does a great deal of fund-raising. WE have sponsored animals before but recently I received a mailing saying that the animals we sponsored have been adopted.

Later, I saw that some animal still listed as available on the shelter's website. When I asked about it, I was told a third-party mailing vendor had sent the notice based on anticipated adoption that didn't happen because of unforeseen medical issues.

Here's my dilemma :

I want to continue supporting the animals at this shelter, because they are well cared for, but I'm uncomfortable with the leadership's behavior toward the staff and the mis-leading fund raising process.

If I stop donating, the animals lose. If I'll continue, I feel I'm enabling questionable practices. I'd appreciate your guidance. [ Name Withheld ].

The Answer to this ' The Ethicist Tap' will be published in the following publishing.

The World Students Society thanks. The New York Times.