Matt Hare and Ian Diplock, Constables
Tuktoyaktuk RCMP
P.O. Box 58
Tuktoyaktuk, NT X0E 1C0
Canada
867-977-1111
867-977-2293 (fax)

Debbie Raddi, Senior Administrative Officer
Hamlet of Tuktoyaktuk
867-977-2286
867-977-2110 (fax)
debbieraddi@airware.ca

The Honorable Mervin Gruben
Mayor of the Hamlet of Tuktoyaktuk
P.O. Box 120
Tuktoyaktuk, NT X0E 1C0
Canada
867-977-2286
867-977-2110 (fax)

The Honorable Marys Nassar
Canada Crown Attorney
107 Mackenzie Rd., Ste. 201
Inuvik, NT X0E 0T0
Canada
867-777-3075
867-777-3260 (fax)

To whom it may concern,

I’m writing you to advocate for the three remaining Randall Pokiak dogs in Tuktoyaktuk.

Recently, several sled dogs were found frozen to death in Pokiak’s care. The Inuvik SPCA and PETA have requested that the dogs be seized, or at the very least, “proper” shelter be provided for them. The RCMP have stated that the dogs have been removed and are being “cared” for

by Randall’s son, Lucky. PETA’s caseworker has discovered that the dogs are still tethered in frigid temperatures with no shelter or fresh water. They are exhibiting signs of hypothermia and malnourishment[C. B.1] .

As a volunteer for a humane organization called Dogs Deserve Better and a former misguided owner of four ‘sled dogs’, I understand both the cultural mythology and the realities of northern breeds.

Society’s view of companion animals has changed over time, and most people now believe that dogs belong with their human ‘packs’, and not subjected to the lonely life of a chained dog. Excellent information regarding the dangers and cruelty of tethering dogs 24/7 can be found at the following websites:

www.dogsdeservebetter.com www.unchainyourdog.com www.helpinganimals.com

Please find it in your heart to use your influence to help these poor animals and others like them. They cannot do it for themselves. They are helpless and innocent.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter, it is appreciated.

Camilla Bellamy