Charges recommended after dog dragged behind vehicle in Merritt: BC SPCA

The BC SPCA says it has seized a dog after it was dragged behind a vehicle in Merritt.

In a news release issued Thursday (Oct. 17), the BC SPCA’s Eileen Drever says the young collie mix was tethered to a vehicle and dragged about 200 metres.

“He has abrasions to his front and back paw pads and hocks, (the joint between the dog’s hind leg and foot) and his nails were shredded,” said Drever. “He is also under weight with a body score of two out of nine, which is very thin.”

Officers transported the dog to a veterinary clinic in Kamloops where  radiographs were taken to assess any internal damage that may have been caused during the incident. Thankfully, no internal injuries were found, and Sunny, as named by BC SPCA staff, was treated for the abrasions to his paw pads and bruising. He was prescribed antibiotics for the infection to his carpal pads, which are located just above the foot on some breeds of dogs. He was also given medication to treat his pain while he is healing.

Drever adds that the staff at the BC SPCA are following veterinary recommendations for weight gain. “Sunny has already gained two kilograms while in our care,” she says.

The dog has quickly become a favourite of staff and volunteers. “Everyone is so impressed at his resiliency,” says Drever. “Sunny loves spending time outside in the sunshine, playing in the field with staff and volunteers. He is a huge fan of cuddles in his kennel and loves nothing more than hanging out with people.”

As this is an ongoing investigation, it is not known when Sunny will be available for adoption. The BC SPCA will be recommending charges to Crown Counsel, pursuant to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.