Protest and fundraising dog walks are happening in communities throughout B.C. in tribute to 100 sled dogs that were apparently killed last April near Whistler, and Squamish is no exception.
A Facebook-organized dog walk happened on Sunday (Feb. 6) at Amblepath and Squamish resident Michael Enders is organizing what he calls a "dog rally-walk-protest" this Saturday (Feb. 12) at 1 p.m.
"Like many, I was speechless when I first heard of the unthinkable act that took place in Whistler back in April of 2010 in regards to the inhumane and brutal mass killing of 100 sled dogs," he said.
"This fundraiser is to allow residents of Squamish the opportunity to show their support towards the 100 sled dogs recently slaughteredin Whistler and their desire to see changes made in the laws for animal rights, preventing culling or slaughters like this from happening again."
The walk will begin at Squamish Elementary School and end at Stan Clarke Park on Second Avenue.
Enders said he hopes the rally will allow Squamish residents to constructively vent their frustrations and encourage tougher laws and greater accountability for those who use dogs for work.
There will be an opportunity to donate to the local SPCA, although the organization said its involvement would be limited.
"If you would like to fundraise for the Squamish branch or for our Cruelty Investigations Department, please feel free," said B.C. SPCA Squamish Valley branch supervisor Marika Donnelly in response to Enders' request."Unfortunately, we would only be able to have limited involvement because this is an ongoing investigation."
B.C. SPCA has issued a press release detailing its position on the sled dogs issue. The organization began by expressing its gratitude for the overwhelming support.
"The B.C. SPCA would like to thank the thousands of concerned individuals who have contacted us expressing their deep concern over the horrific slaughter of 100 sled dogs in Whistler," stated the release. "It is heartening to know that there are so many people who share our shock over this distressing incident and who join us in our fight against animal cruelty."
The release also specified ways to help fight animal cruelty, including contacting local MLAs and MPs and donating by mail to the B.C. SPCA at 1245 East 7th Ave., Vancouver, B.C., V5T 1R1.
Enders said he is trying to incorporate both methods by accepting donations for the SPCA and also having a petition to prevent future animal cruelty on hand.
"I had the petition approved by MP John Weston and he said as long as it's the original, I can send it to him afterwards and it will be legitimate," said Enders.
The event is listed on Facebook under "dog rally/walk/protest." Donna Guerrinha already posted on the event's wall confirming she'll be there with the official federal petition.
"My husband and I will be there at the school with a petition for people to sign. It is approved in the House of Commons, and is being circulated around Canada, it is to change Canadian laws on all animal abuse," she said. "I will make sure to be there close to noon so people can sign before going on the walk."
Other dog walk protests are happening in Kamloops, Kelowna, Vernon and Hope. On Saturday (Feb. 5) about 70 dog lovers gathered in Whistler for a "funeral procession" in tribute to the 100 sled dogs. Enders said he hopes to have a similar number this Saturday (Feb 12).
"I am not sure how many people will come out, but as a dog lover myself and having many in my life, I cannot imagine what it would be like if it happened to one of my own," he said. "I am frustrated and I know others are as well."
He sent a notice to council members describing his intent.
"I told them it is not our intent to disturb traffic nor the daily operations for businesses or individuals," he said, and reassured them that he would walk at the back of the pack to ensure all dog feces was cleaned up.
Enders said the protest will go on rain or shine and participants are welcome to bring signs if they like.
