‘A TRAGEDY ALL AROUND’

Scotchfort reserve mourning death of golden retriever, considered to be a member of the community

The death of a dog believed abandoned in a vehicle for two days has left the Scotchfort reserve rattled.

“It’s a severe tragedy,’’ says a resident of the Abeqweit First Nation, who reported the incident to police.

“It’s heartbreaking for me to think about…the dog was, in my opinion, a member of the community and a friend.’’

The woman, who The Guardian has decided not to name to avoid retaliation against her, says the dog was found dumped on a back road on Saturday, Aug. 19. She says the car owned by the owner of the dog was considerably torn inside from apparent claw and bite marks, presumably from desperate attempt by the dog to escape the scorching-hot vehicle.

She believes the owner had forgotten that the dog was in the car.

“I have had a couple community members drive by that tell me how hard it is to look at the vehicle,’’ she says.

The woman says she knew the dog, a golden retriever named Lucky, since it was a puppy.

She estimates the dog was five or six years old.

“He was a healthy, good looking dog – lovely coat of hair,’’ she says.

“Loyal. He had friends on the reserve.’’

The woman says she filed a complaint with the RCMP because the incident, accidental or intentional, should be addressed.

“I just hope that something is done,’’ she says.

“I want people to know: don’t forget your dogs in the car…it’s just a tragedy all around.’’

The RCMP confirmed Friday that they are investigating a complaint made on Aug. 21 under section 446 of the Criminal Code that deals with causing damage or injury to a domestic animal but did not offer any details.

P.E.I. Humane Society executive director Marla Somersall calls the incident a “very sad situation.’’

She encourages the public, if they see any companion animal in distress, to call the Humane Society’s 24-hour service at 902892-1191.

They also, of course, can call the police, she adds.