Saskatoon woman looking for ‘justice’ after dog attack leaves Pomeranian dead
The Haultain neighbourhood in Saskatoon is reeling after a vicious dog attack last week left a woman injured and her beloved Pomeranian dead. Susan O’Donnell, who had been inseparable from her furry companion Ryder for nine years, described the incident as traumatizing and heartbreaking.
The attack occurred as O’Donnell and Ryder were on their usual evening stroll. As they approached the intersection of Sixth Street East and Dufferin Avenue, O’Donnell spotted three large pitbulls charging towards them, with a group of men trailing behind. In a panic, O’Donnell tried to protect Ryder by picking him up, but the pitbulls overpowered her, knocking her to the ground and biting her hand before turning their aggression towards Ryder.
Neighbours who heard the commotion rushed to help, managing to separate the pitbulls from Ryder. Despite their efforts, the Pomeranian’s injuries were too severe, and O’Donnell was forced to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize him. The experience was described as the most traumatic event she had ever endured.
Neighbours in the area revealed that the pitbulls had a history of escaping and displaying aggressive behavior towards residents and children. Complaints had been lodged with the Saskatoon Animal Control Agency in the past, but no meaningful action had been taken. Vic Bairos, the owner of the pitbulls, claimed that he still had the dogs in his possession but was informed by the agency that they would need to be euthanized.
Calls for justice for Ryder have been echoing throughout the neighbourhood, with O’Donnell and other residents urging for the dogs responsible for the attack to be put down. O’Donnell plans to submit a witness statement to the Saskatoon Animal Control Agency, while a neighbor has provided a graphic video of the incident as evidence.
As the investigation unfolds, O’Donnell is finding solace in the support of her community, who have rallied around her with flowers, cards, hugs, and messages of solidarity. She remembers Ryder as a gentle and loving companion who never exhibited aggression towards anyone or anything.
In the wake of this tragic event, residents are calling for stricter laws and greater enforcement to ensure the safety of the neighbourhood. They believe that animal control agencies should have the authority to intervene swiftly in cases involving dangerous dogs to prevent future attacks.
As O’Donnell seeks closure and justice for Ryder, she hopes that the dogs responsible for his untimely death will be deemed dangerous and euthanized to prevent further harm to the community. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for robust measures to protect both humans and animals in our neighborhoods.
