Neighborhood Dog Dragged Away by Animal Control in Arizona

On May 4, an animal control officer dragged away a neighborhood dog in Winslow, Arizona. Community members were outraged in response and are demanding justice for the beloved canine. In a video sent to the authorities, the pup was seen bleeding and gasping for air, per Fox 10.

Dog dragged away by animal control in Winslow

Raider is a much-loved dog that roams the Winslow neighborhood but has a family and a home to return to. Jim Sundwall, a community member, noted that the canine follows a high school teacher. After collecting treats from all the houses in the community, he returns home without doing any harm. The pup has built a routine where he meets all families in the neighborhood, and they also enjoy his company.

However, on Saturday, Sundwall noticed a police officer near Raider’s home. So, he kindly informed the officer about the dog’s presence and assured him that Raider would not bite. Reportedly, the pup had already tried to bite him, but he dodged just in time. Since the officer wasn’t injured, Sundwall didn’t think much of it. However, soon after, an animal control officer tried to capture the dog with a rope pole, dragging him to the vehicle.

Raider was bleeding from his mouth and shaking as the officer dragged him away. Per Arizona’s Family, a man could be heard in the video telling the animal control officer that he was choking the dog, but he replied that the canine wouldn’t die. Raider’s parent is in a wheelchair, and he voiced his protests as Raider was dragged away. Other neighbors also noted that they were shocked by how the authorities treated the canine, and some have filed police reports.

The animal control officer involved in the dog-dragging case has been placed on paid administrative leave. Winslow Police Department is currently investigating them and will provide an answer to the public once their investigation has concluded. Fortunately, it was determined that Raider was in good health after a vet examined him. However, he has yet to reunite with his family as of Tuesday, May 7.