Stray Dog Concerns Rise in Sheshatshiu After Young Girl’s Attack

After a young girl in Sheshatshiu was attacked by a dog, concerns over the increasing number of stray dogs in the area have escalated.

Mary-Lou Nuna, the mother of the victim, Melina Rich, has been vocal about the need for action to address the issue. The incident occurred while six-year-old Melina was playing outside, resulting in her being rushed to the Labrador Health Centre in Happy Valley-Goose Bay for treatment.

Nuna expressed shock and sadness over the attack, highlighting the overall safety of children playing outdoors in the community. She emphasized the importance of addressing the stray and loose dog population in Sheshatshiu.

Greg Pastitshi, the Director of Operations at the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation, mentioned ongoing efforts to manage the dog population. In cases of aggression or attacks, the First Nation collaborates with a dog catcher and the SPCA to either address owner responsibilities or find new homes for the animals.

Douglas Ashini, the Public Works Director, explained the complexities involved in addressing the issue. Despite initiatives being in place, challenges arise when attempting to control the loose dog population due to resistance from dog owners.

The community’s lack of a bylaw mandating dog restraint contributes to the difficulty in enforcing regulations. The First Nation is planning to work with municipal authorities and the SPCA to introduce a bylaw, with scheduled meetings to discuss the matter further.

Efforts to address the situation also include collaboration with organizations such as the Happy Valley-Goose Bay SPCA and initiatives like the Spay It Forward program, aiming to spay and neuter pets in remote communities like Sheshatshiu.

Sheshatshiu officials are exploring long-term solutions, including potential bylaws and full-time dog catcher services to ensure the safety of residents, particularly children, in the community.

The CBC‘s coverage of the incident has sparked discussions about pet ownership and community safety in Newfoundland and Labrador, prompting collective efforts to address the challenges posed by the stray dog population.