Dog survives attempt to kill it, but loses leg, needs new home
By Kate Webb, The Province
Published: Friday, April 25, 2008
A three-legged collie has become the sad symbol for criticism aimed at the practice of shooting stray dogs on First Nations reserves.
Remington, a young, friendly border collie-cross, was found lying in a pool of blood in a school yard, his leg shattered by a bullet, at the Anaham Reserve near Williams Lake on Feb. 2.
The female teacher who found him took him to a vet, who sent him to the Williams Lake SPCA shelter. Five days later, his leg was amputated.
Chilliwack SPCA manager Ivanna Ferris and the surprisingly people-friendly Remington.
"Basically, he fell victim to a group of individuals who decided to shoot some dogs," said Williams Lake SPCA attendant Kristen Meadows, adding that the woman who brought him in said he was found among the remains of several other slain dogs.
"He was in a lot of pain, but he was wagging his tail and he was quite friendly."
Marcie Moriarty, general manager of cruelty investigations for the B.C. SPCA, said canine-population overrun is a common problem on many First Nations reserves since most residents let their dogs run free, allowing them to form packs and in some cases become a public danger.
"One method that historically has been used for population control - and we're very much opposed to this - is shooting them," said Moriarty. "The stray-dog problem is huge."
Although the SPCA operates free spay-neuter clinics in northern communities, some people still don't understand the importance of sterilizing pets, said Moriarty.
The Anaham Band could not be reached for comment, and Alexis Creek RCMP, who are responsible for the band territory, said the incident was not reported.
Moriarty said it is not illegal in B.C. to shoot stray dogs, as long as they are killed instantly, but that shooters can be prosecuted for leaving an animal injured.
She said the SPCA plans to brainstorm ways to work with First Nations communities on education about free spay-and-neuter programs, as well as funding to help dog owners access those services.
Meanwhile, the Chilliwack SPCA is looking for someone to adopt Remington. Anyone interested should phone 604-823-6612 or e-mail iferris@spca.bc.ca.