Vancouver family seeks answers after dog dies in attack before group walk

A Vancouver family is seeking answers after its 21-month-old sheepadoodle, Boomer, died following an attack involving two other dogs before a scheduled group walk.

Katie Bertram and Ryan Mullins say Boomer was in the care of Scamps Inclusive Pet Care on Tuesday. A witness told CTV News that the dog had been brought outside and tied to a fence near two dogs waiting for the walk, before the dogs became tangled and the attack began. The witness said he tried unsuccessfully to free Boomer.

Bertram said she ran outside after hearing screams. Boomer was taken to a nearby animal hospital but did not survive. The couple questioned how their dog came to be placed near the other animals.

Talia Erickson, owner of Scamps Inclusive Pet Care, said the three dogs had walked together before and she was unaware of any violent history involving the two pit bull mixes. She said the company is co-operating with an investigation and reviewing what happened; the walker involved is on leave after being traumatized by the incident.

Animal lawyer Victoria Shroff said professional dog walkers can face civil claims for harm to pets in their care, and that more serious circumstances can carry further legal consequences. The City of Vancouver said animal control officers have identified the two dogs, but privacy rules prevent it from discussing their histories or possible enforcement while its investigation continues. The family says it is exploring legal options.