Despite ugly conditions outside, more than 30 people and their canines took to the streets of Squamish on Saturday (Feb. 12) to pay tribute to the 100 sled dogs that met their demise last April near Whistler.
Squamish resident Michael Enders helped organize the rally and said he was overwhelmed with the response, particularly in the wet weather.
"I was really blown away," he said. "I went into this with really no expectations and I was just taken aback by the numbers and enthusiasm of the people who took part."
The walk saw dog owners and their pets meet at Squamish Elementary, where they were encouraged to sign a petition to go to the House of Commons to prevent future animal cruelty. From there the group then made its way through downtown to Stan Clarke Park. According to Enders, the feedback he received from participants and those on the streets was positive.
"I think everyone was really happy that someone organized this walk and we got comments from people on the street that if the weather was nicer that they would have joined us," he said.
One of the several dozen of walkers taking part was local Member of Parliament John Weston. Enders said he was pleasantly surprised to see Weston participate in the dog walk.
"I was actually very surprised to see John Weston there," he said. "We sent a message to his office inviting him to show up, but we never spoke directly with him, so it was unclear if he was coming. I was happy to see him and also happy to hear him tell us that he would take the petition to the House of Commons."
Enders said the petition has been gaining momentum, with people signing up all over the country during rallies for dogs similar to the one in Squamish. He said the support for the dogs from across the country prove that Canadians do want a change.
"I think this rally in Squamish and the ones going on across Canada show how much people were disgusted by the deaths," he said. "This could have been prevented."
He added he's happy to play a small role in seeking more human treatment for man's best friend.
"I'm happy and content with what I did," he said. "It gave me an opportunity to raise some awareness and I hope the petition gains more ground."
He also expressed his desire for stiffer penalties for those that abuse animals.
"I'd like to see more checks by the SPCA and higher accountability to dog owners," he said. "Dogs need room to run around; that's the life they deserve and they shouldn't be caged up."
Enders also urged people to visit the Boycotting Outdoor Adventures Facebook page, which as of press time over 50,000 people have "liked." The page also has information on future walks and plans for the petition, it can be viewed at www.facebook.com/AAOAW.
