US$600 Appeal Launched to Save Dog Injured in All Saints Police Shooting

A dog that survived a police shooting in All Saints is now facing another battle, this time for her recovery, as animal welfare supporters race to raise US$600 to cover the cost of urgent veterinary treatment.

Helen, who reportedly sustained a gunshot wound to her face during a police search at a residential property on Friday, October 16, remains under veterinary care after surviving an incident that claimed the life of another dog identified as her brother.

Her survival has brought some relief to those following the incident, but concerns remain about the extent of her injuries and the treatment she will require.

An appeal circulated in the Facebook discussion group of animal welfare organisation Dogs and Cats of Antigua is seeking donations to assist with an X-ray, additional antibiotics and other medical expenses.

“Thankfully, Helen survived and she was taken to the Ark this morning for care. However, she is not out of danger yet,” the appeal stated.

“I am incredibly grateful that Helen survived, but survival is only the beginning of her journey,” the post continued.

The appeal comes amid growing concern over the treatment of animals during a police operation at an All Saints property early Friday morning.

In an official statement issued Saturday, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging that several dogs were harmed during the execution of a search warrant.

According to police, officers arrived at the property at approximately 4:50 a.m. as part of a joint operation involving the Criminal Investigations Department Task Force, Special Services Unit, Gang and Guns Suppression Unit and K-9 Unit.

The Police Administration said officers encountered several dogs, including pit bulls, a Rottweiler and a Bullmastiff, which reportedly displayed aggressive behaviour as the team attempted to enter the premises.

Police maintained that less-lethal measures were initially employed to control the animals and protect officers from possible injury. However, the statement did not identify the specific measures used.

According to the police account, one dog continued advancing aggressively, prompting an officer to discharge a firearm, fatally wounding the animal.

“The Police Administration deeply regrets that the circumstances surrounding this operation resulted in harm to the animals, particularly the unfortunate loss of one of the dogs,” the statement said.

While police acknowledged that several animals were harmed, their statement specifically detailed only the fatal shooting. It did not explain how Helen reportedly sustained a gunshot wound to her face.

The force also sought to reassure the public that it recognised the importance of animals as companions and valued members of families, pointing to its own K-9 Unit as evidence of its appreciation for working dogs.

Police maintained that unnecessary harm or cruelty to animals was not condoned and reaffirmed their commitment to protecting life, respecting animal welfare and upholding professional standards.

However, several questions remain unanswered, including the outcome of the search operation and whether the circumstances surrounding the shooting will be formally reviewed.

Meanwhile, attention has turned to Helen's recovery, with supporters hoping that the funds raised will help provide the medical attention she needs.

Although she survived the initial incident, the full extent of her injuries has not yet been established, making further veterinary assessment an important part of her treatment.

For those supporting the appeal, the immediate priority is ensuring that Helen receives the care necessary to give her the best possible chance of recovery.