Through the years, I have been fortunate to live in a number of cities and provinces. Canada is a wonderful country hosting many wonderful people. I readily admit, however, that my favourite place to live is Picton. I have found her people to be warm, welcoming, kind and supportive.
Nonetheless, I was shocked and deeply saddened by an encounter in a local large parking lot. As I drove in I heard loud, deep, frenetic barking from a parked vehicle. I investigated and discovered a large Boxer in the back seat of a midsize car with only a 25 per cent open window to allow for fresh air. The dog was panting and there was no water available. It was noon and the temperature close to 80 degrees. Goodness only knows how high the temperature was in the car.
I immediately looked about for an owner approaching the car but there was no one. Unfortunately, I did not have my cell phone with me. I stopped five people and asked to borrow their phone to call the police to release the dog. The response was dismal. Not one person offered his or her phone.
They said, “This is none of my business, I don’t want to become involved, it’s only a dog, not a child, I don’t want to become involved with the police.” I attempted to explain they would have no involvement. I just needed a phone. Still nothing. I went into stores in the plaza and the response was similar. Finally I did get the use of the phone from a pet store. By this time, 20 or more minutes had passed. Never mind the time that the dog had been imprisoned before I arrived.
When I called 911, I was forwarded to the police and joined other callers on hold who were waiting. I couldn’t believe what was occurring and my thoughts kept returning to that dog especially when his barking grew less and weaker. Someone in the pet store said she thought the owners were in the MacDonalds, eating. I started out for MacDonalds but saw two people exit, walk to the car, and drive away.
I have no way of knowing whether the people I spoke with or the ones in the parking lot giving me a wide berth, were residents, tourists or both.
What I do know is that they are an indifferent, cold lot and should be ashamed. Perhaps the only way that they would understand the plight of that poor animal is if they were locked in a hot car for at least 20 minutes with only a small percentage of fresh air and no water.
The Loyalist Humane Society has provided two numbers to call in the event that I ever spot another situation like this one. I pass them along to you. I hope that you will be compassionate and use them if the need occurs. Gale – 613 885-2909, or Ann – 613 847-3243.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Janet Bingham
