Manitoba First Nation responds to death of dog rescue volunteer

Police are investigating the death of an animal rescue worker on a Manitoba First Nation last week. CTV's Taylor Brock has the latest.

A Manitoba First Nation said it has been affected by the death of an animal rescue volunteer following a dog attack last week.

“Sandy Bay First Nation extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the canine advocate who tragically lost her life following an incident involving dogs on our territory,” a statement from chief and council posted on Facebook Sunday reads.

The Manitoba First Nations Police Service confirmed Friday that a woman was found dead Friday morning on Sandy Bay First Nation and the cause of her death was under investigation. They said several aggressive dogs had been in the area where she was found.

K9 Advocacy Manitoba confirmed last week that the victim was a volunteer with their organization but did not provide specific details about her death.

“Any time we suffer the loss of a valued member of our community, it calls us to pull together to honour the work, dedication, and commitment that they have contributed to our mission,” the statement reads. “We will sorely miss this member and the lovely heart, hours of involvement, and strong advocacy they brought to such challenging work.”

K9 Advocacy Manitoba declined an interview on Monday.

Stray and aggressive dogs remain challenge in community: council

Sandy Bay First Nation said in its statement that council has been working to address the issue of stray and aggressive dogs and asked the public to avoid assigning blame or speculating on what happened.

The statement said independent animal retrieval activities in the community are not allowed without prior approval from Sandy Bay First Nation and police accompaniment.

“Based on the information currently available to the First Nation, it is our understanding that the canine advocate entered the community after regular business hours and attempted to retrieve dogs,” the statement reads.

The community said it is fully cooperating with Manitoba First Nations Police Service and will not comment on the circumstances of the incident until the investigation is finished.

“This tragedy has deeply affected not only the advocate’s loved ones, but also our community and many dog owners,” the statement reads.

-with files from CTV’s Taylor Brock