The Caddo K9 Academy has issued a statement following the seizure of 19 dogs by the Hunt County Sheriff and Dallas SPCA. The reasons behind the seizure remain unclear at this time.
The academy expressed deep sadness over the loss of their beloved dogs, emphasizing that each one is a cherished member of their family. They highlighted the extensive care and attention given to the dogs, including training, socialization, exercise, and love.
The impact of the seizure extends beyond the business, affecting personal lives as well. The founder, a veteran battling PTSD, had his support dogs taken away, and one of the dogs seized was a personal companion for a deaf individual.
In response to allegations of abuse, the academy explained a situation involving a dog named Ranger, who had exhibited aggression. They stated that efforts had been made to rehome the dog due to safety concerns. During an incident where Ranger attacked another dog, measures were taken to ensure the safety of the other animals, including euthanizing Ranger.
The academy provided further details on the incident, describing the sequence of events. They stated that Ranger, a 1-year-old male Belgian Malinois with aggression issues, had broken loose and attacked a 6-month-old service dog candidate.
Getting these type of dogs to release once on the bite usually requires an 'aggressive dog slip collar', but the Ranger was wearing a 1 inch wide flat collar. Ranger refused to release the pup.
In a desperate attempt to save the pup, a staff member held Ranger's head underwater until he lost consciousness, releasing the pup. Once awake, Ranger was checked to make sure he was unharmed and taken to the infermary which is located within the training room. However, Ranger then attacked another dog in the training room, leading to the decision to euthanize him to ensure the safety of the other dogs.
The academy acknowledged that a selective video clip of the incident was included in an anonymous animal cruelty complaint, leading to the investigation.
Despite the challenges, the academy expressed faith in justice and gratitude for the support received from the community.
The investigation continues.
