Slaughter of 100 Sled Dogs in Whistler, B.C.
Ottawa, Ontario (Feb 5, 2011) - We are horrified at news reports of the mass slaughter of 100 sled dogs in Whistler, British Columbia. It is our position that healthy dogs of non-aggressive temperament are entitled to placement with responsible parties. In our experience, training as a sled dog in no way inhibits the likelihood of successful adoption with an appropriate owner. It is our further belief that euthanasia, even by the most humane means, is not a legitimate option for dogs whose commercial use is not deemed profitable.
As a Canada-wide rescue, we are deeply disturbed that the party or parties responsible for this slaughter failed to contact agencies such as ours, which rescue and re-home northern breed dogs. We believe that these agencies, like ours, would have worked together to offer an alternative to the unwarranted death of these animals.
It is our hope that the allegations surrounding this atrocity be fully investigated, and that, when due process has been served, those responsible be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The Alaskan Malamute HELP League remains grateful for the many recreational sledding operations and individuals who maintain high and humane standards for the care and happiness of their working dogs for the duration of their animals’ lives.
For the Alaskan malamute Help League
Robert Canuel, President
Deborah Ann Taylor, National Rescue Coordinator
Trish Forrest, Director & Information Officer
About the Alaskan Malamute Help League
We are the largest association of Malamute owners in Canada. The AMHL is a Canada-wide registered charity dedicated to working with shelters, rescue groups and the public, to provide: education; information; support in finding lost and stolen dogs; encouragement and recognition of responsible dog ownership and achievement; assistance in placing Alaskan Malamutes at risk; and providing hands-on rescue in Canada.
Media Contact:
Deborah Ann Taylor, National Rescue Coordinator
Media@Malamuterescue.com
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