Dog's fate sealed by court

Photo: Facebook

Andrew Panton will have one last chance to see his dog before it is euthanized later this week.

Jake, a Presa Canario, was ordered put down following a BC Supreme Court decision rendered earlier today.

Panton received the judgement via email.

Jake was ordered euthanized following the fatal attack on a 12-year-old lhasa apso/Wheaton terrier, Charlie, while the dog was being walked by its owner in Peachland on New Year's Day 2015.

Panton voluntarily surrendered Jake and his other dog, Buddy, right after the attack and has fought the regional district's claim both dogs need to be euthanized ever since.

Last year, the late Justice Anne Wallace ordered that Jake be euthanized, while Buddy, an American bulldog cross that was also involved in the attack, was determined to be less of a threat and was returned to Panton with specific conditions.

In a fight to save Jake, a dog he called one of the loves of his life, Panton went back to court in December to appeal Wallace's decision.

"The bottom line here is Jake is going to be put down in the next two days. Just making the arrangements to have a final visit with him," said an emotional Panton in an interview with Castanet.

"They will not be taking me to the vet to have him put down, which is kind of sad. I wish he could see me instead of some stranger before he goes, but that won't be the case."

Along with trying to spare Jake's life, Panton successfully fought the impound fees the Regional District of Central Okanagan was trying to impose against Buddy. 

"(Dog owners) will now know that the regional district can't bully them with the threat of long-term confinement and the costs involved with that confinement," said Panton. "That's always been the regional district's first ploy when you come in to meet them when they seize your dog.

"Even if you do go to court and even if you do get the judge to release the dog back to you, you are going to have to pay all impound fees up to that date. It was the first thing they threatened me with... it's just what they do. That's their number one tactic to try and get you to sign your dog over to be put down."

Panton adds he hopes this opens people's eyes to the fact they can fight and win.

"Buddy is home, safe and happy," he said.

For past Castanet articles on this case, click here.