STATEMENT RELEASE

LA/SPCA “Extremely Saddened” Over
Tragic Shooting of Doberman

NEW ORLEANS (04/15/08) - The Louisiana SPCA is extremely saddened and deeply upset by the chain of events that ultimately led to Jax, Dr. Patrick Colemen’s beloved Doberman, being shot and killed during a New Orleans Police Department response to a call reporting a burglary in progress.

When the LA/SPCA officers arrived on the scene, they learned that NOPD had responded to what had been reported as a burglary in progress. NOPD reported that the dog came out of the doggie door charging the officer which resulted in 8 shots being fired. The LA/SPCA was called to the scene after the shooting occurred and assisted Dr. Coleman’s friend in preparing the deceased dog to be removed from his home and providing information about cremation.

The LA/SPCA has requested the police report and will investigate further if the report indicates any wrong doing. Thus far, no witnesses have come forward with any information contrary to what NOPD reported.

The LA/SPCA recognizes that misconceptions about large breed dogs such as Dobermans, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, for example, being aggressive may have played a role in the tragic chain of events. Most dogs will bark at someone entering their yard unable to differentiate between an intruder and a police officer. Sadly, when the officer was approached by the dog, the officer felt that he needed to protect himself from a potential attack.

The LA/SPCA urges dog owners to post signs indicating that there is a dog on the property so that should a law enforcement officer have to enter the property in an emergency situation, the officers are not surprised by the dog and can more humanely approach the dog.

The LA/SPCA does not condone the shooting of a family pet. Again, we are extremely saddened by the loss of Jax and mourn with the family and the community of animal lovers for this very tragic loss of a beloved family companion.

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The Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an organization devoted to improving the lives of animals and eliminating the homelessness, neglect, and abuse that signal animal suffering. Chartered in 1888, our history has been paved with an understanding that only through an improved human-animal ethic can we better the lives of companion animals and that of our community. Our programs and services are infused with the highest standards of care and compassion.

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