‘No one will talk’ – SPCA says no charges as attacked husky dies

The NWT SPCA says no charges will follow the death of a husky puppy in an incident the organization termed a “brutal attack” earlier this month.

The four-month-old puppy, dubbed Spike, was brought to the Yellowknife shelter at the start of May. At the time, the SPCA said Spike had been “traumatized both mentally and physically” resulting in multiple pelvic fractures, head trauma, and severe bruising.

NWT residents followed the dog’s rehabilitation over ensuing weeks, only for the SPCA to report on Monday that Spike had passed away.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of little Spike,” SPCA workers posted on Facebook.

“He had seizures over the weekend and had stopped eating. There was too much damage to his tiny body from the trauma of abuse he suffered. He passed on his own this morning.”

The message added: “There will be no charges pressed for this incident. There are no witnesses that will come forward and the people involved are not co-operating with authorities. There is no proof and no one will talk.”

Spike’s home community, his former owner, and what exactly happened to cause the injuries the dog suffered have not been confirmed. The SPCA’s statements regarding charges and witnesses could not be immediately verified with the relevant authorities.

Cabin Radio approached RCMP on May 10 for information relating to Spike’s case, but police were unable to provide any details at the time. RCMP have been asked for comment and to confirm details regarding the case following Monday’s SPCA announcement.

Staff at the shelter had earlier suggested apparent brain damage suffered in the attack would hinder Spike’s efforts to recover.

“It is indeed a sad day! Rest in peace little boy. You were loved very much,” staff posted on Monday.

If you have any information regarding what happened to Spike, you can leave police a confidential, totally anonymous message by using the NWT/NU Tips website. Select “Submit a web tip” – NO questions about your identity are asked.