Following the death of a dog in Iuca, Mississippi, among other tragic losses, we’re calling for law enforcement officers, animal control officers, and public works employees who come into contact with dogs to participate in canine behavior training.

On July 27, an Iuka police officer arrested Antonio Wilder on suspicion of DUI. The city tried to contact Wilder’s husband Jonah Berry to come for two dogs inside the vehicle, but he missed the call.

Subsequently, a public works employee was called to remove the dogs. Roxie, one of the dogs, was removed and taken to the city’s impoundment facility and later reunited with her guardians. The other dog, Shadoe, was killed when being removed.

When Berry recovered Shadoe’s body, three marks were found on her side that looked like scrapes, or possible taser burns. Berry contacted our Justice for Animals campaign director Doll Stanley for help learning why Shadoe was killed. He hadn’t been given the necropsy report and added that the veterinarian who handled Shadoe’s body for the city stated that she died from extreme strangulation.

The Iuka City Attorney confirmed to Stanley that a catchpole was used to remove the dogs from the car. This can be a useful tool, but it needs to be used properly. If it isn’t, it can lead to strangulation and other injuries, especially when dogs are scared. Feces found in Wilder’s car lead to the conclusion that she was terrified and that she struggled to free herself.

Even without malice, or ill-intent, situations like these can become deadly for dogs if those handling them aren’t used to working with animals or properly trained. Shadoe’s death highlights the need for animal advocacy organizations to work with cities and counties to promote the humane handling of animals and for officials to engage first responders and prepare them to respond compassionately to animals who may be afraid, stressed, or protecting their guardians and property.

The Law Enforcement Dog Encounters Training program offered by the National Sheriff’s Association is an excellent resource for ending the tragic killing of dogs by first responders who aren’t prepared to deal with them.

Please urge officials in your community to promote this training and visit our Justice for Animals campaign to find out more about how to help animal victims of cruelty and neglect.

Donations to support our critical work in this regard are always needed and deeply appreciated.