| Police seek info on 'puppy mill' dogs |
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| Written by production |
| Wednesday, 24 February 2010 20:23 |
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The SPCA investigation into an alleged puppy mill operating near Etzikom has been discontinued after the family of three gathered all their belongings, over 100 dogs and at least three horses then left town with everything to a destination which has not yet been determined. Sgt. Squire with the Bow Island/Foremost RCMP has been in touch with Daryl Pyke via cell phone, however Pyke will not disclose his whereabouts nor the location of the animals. “When I pressed him about where the dogs were he would only say they have a bunch of friends who did them a favour,” Squire said. “They are well within their rights to refuse to cooperate,” he added. “Nobody has to cooperate with us.” Police found out about the animals following a house fire which destroyed the family of three’s home along with 30 to 50 dogs which were kept in cages in the porch of the house. Another 100 dogs were kept in a barn on the land and subsequent searches have turned up other outbuildings that also housed dogs. The animals were being raised to be sold. After the story of the fire and suspected puppy mill became public, Pyke gave an interview to a television reporter but refused to allow them to film the kennels where the dogs were kept. The Alberta SPCA was scheduled to visit the farm to determine what shape the animals were in, however since no animals are onsite and since no one knows where the animals are now, their investigation has stalled. Squire said the RCMP works closely with the SPCA with investigations like this. They rely on their expertise and the evidence they collect which includes veterinarian evaluations. If the animals are found to be abused through neglect or intentional harm, criminal code charges can be laid which could result in anything from a fine of up to $2,000 to up to six months in jail. At the moment no charges are pending against the family, however the RCMP is asking the public to help them locate the dogs so their safety and health can be ensured. Although Pyke told the RCMP many friends helped him with the animals, residents of the small hamlet of Etzikom were not well acquainted with the family. Most contacted said they would not know them to see them nor even recognize their vehicle. The family is alleged to have moved from BC to Alberta. Anyone with further information can contact the local RCMP at 403-545-2784. |