Owners distraught after dog shot dead

A much-loved pet dog has been shot dead on his front lawn, devastating his owners and shocking a community.

Max, an 18-month-old labrador, was found dead at his Invercargill home on Friday evening.

His owner, who did not want to be named, said Max was ‘‘his normal self’’ when she left for work about 9.30am, and when her husband went home for lunch about 1pm.

But when her husband returned from work that evening, Max did not run to greet him.

He eventually found the labrador’s body near the front gate of their property.

The pair had no idea how Max had died until their vet found a bullet in his chest during an autopsy on Saturday morning.

The vet was not sure what sort of firearm it came from, but believed ‘‘it had to be something a bit more high-powered than a BB gun’’, Max’s owner said.

Max’s death had been reported to the police and more information was expected to be released today.

His owner said the dog was cherished member of their family.

‘‘He’s a typical labrador – they just want hugs and kisses,’’ she said.

‘‘He just wants to play with anyone who walks past. He’s a very friendly dog; he’s never wanted to hurt anyone or anything like that.’’

She said they lived in a close-knit community where the neighbours, most of whom owned dogs themselves, were good at discussing any issues.

She did not know of anyone who held a personal grievance against their family.

‘‘The neighbours are pretty freaked out,’’ she said. a

‘‘Lots of people have messaged me saying ‘we’re going to keep our dogs well locked up’.’’

The Southland charity Furever Homes has started a GiveaLittle page in Max’s memory.

It aims to help his owners pay for his autopsy and cremation, as well as put up a reward for any information.

A police spokeswoman said yesterday there had been no arrests yet in relation to the matter.

While concerned about the incident, police believed it to be an isolated matter, the spokeswoman said.

‘‘There have been no other reports of similar incidents or suspicious activity in the area.’’

Police will review the autopsy results today.