Abused dog recovering

By Marelle Reid - Merritt Herald
Published: July 06, 2010 6:00 PM

April Rain, the two-year old golden lab that was dragged three kilometres behind her owner’s car, is recovering well in the care of Angel’s Animal Rescue.
Judanna and George Caros, who run the rescue organization near Merritt, say it will take a few months before her wounds fully heal, but they have received many offers from all over the province to adopt her.
“She’s such a wonderful, wonderful dog,” said George. “She’s just amazing. So friendly. She’s just happy to be alive, I guess.”
Her owner allegedly tied her to the back of his car on June 17, and drove at speeds she was unable to keep up with, before she was dragged.
He drove along pavement, gravel roads, and over at least one cattle guard, according to witnesses.
“He said he was trying to train it because it wouldn’t stay home,” said George, of the statement from the dog’s owner.
Judanna took statements from the man and from and witnesses, which she then turned over to the Kamloops SPCA. An investigation is now underway and charges are pending against the owner, who willingly surrendered the dog to Angel’s Animal Rescue.
Judanna said it was the thoughtfulness of neighbours that saved the dog’s life. “Without the compassion of caring people within the Nooaitch reserve, that dog would have died that night,” she said.
“Because of caring individuals in that community, the abuse was reported. It took a lot of courage for the people who reported the abuse. These are neighbours, friends, you know.”
April Rain had severe lacerations across her body, as well as worn foot pads and toenails. Witnesses said there were bloody paw prints on the road where the incident took place.
Judanna and George have been taking the dog to the vet clinic regularly and change the bandages themselves on a daily basis.
The vet bills are “significant,” said Judanna, and donations will be gratefully received either through the Merritt Veterinary Clinic, or at the Interior Savings Credit Union in Merritt.
The account number for Angel’s Animal Rescue is 1193739.
Because it is a criminal investigation, members of the Kamloops SPCA said they are unable to comment on the matter at this time.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_thompson_nicola/merrittherald/news/97902614.html