TUCSON, Arizona (KOLD News 13) – A spate of dog attacks in Catalina has raised residents on high alert, especially for livestock.
One family said they were traumatized after their three award-winning cows were ambushed.
Erica Spurlin said it all happened in a blink of an eye. The dog broke through the back fence in just a few minutes.
“At 4:45, when I went in to make sure my daughter was awake, I could almost hear a growl,” she said. “I walk her foot into her room and she’s like what it is. She said she didn’t know so let’s find out. It seemed long and low.”
Little did she know, she was stepping into an absolute blood bath. A pack of dogs were attacking daughter Isabel’s award-winning 4-H dairy cow.
“I turn the lights on and it looks like there’s a buttercup lying on the water’s edge and a black dog with her. I started flipping over and I called John and they ran over the fence,” Spurlin said. rice field.
As she approached, I could see the buttercup’s mussels and ears being completely eaten up, a pregnant Sandy trapped in the feeder, and the cupcake bleeding from its ears and sides.
Buttercup died in Isabel’s arms shortly after the vet arrived.
“After that, she spent a good deal of time crying and essentially fell apart,” she said.
And for good reason, Isabel has been taking care of Buttercup and all the cows since they were 4 hour calves.
“I mean, that’s all about her, her 4-H. She is planning to become a veterinarian.
Isabel’s father, John Spurlin, said that not only did Isabel lose her best friend, but she also lost a large amount of cash.
“With the loss of future offspring from the cows and the loss of production, the cows are champion showman cows. Told. “It’s very traumatic to see it. The loss of directing it to a university that no longer exists.”
In a statement from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, they said:
“While it is not conclusive at this time, we believe it is the same pack of dogs attacking livestock in the Catalina area. Efforts are being made to ensure the safety of livestock, poultry, pets and children.If you encounter a ferocious animal, keep your distance, move to a safe location and follow the 9-1- Please call 1.”
Right now, the family only wants justice and peace of mind.
“As early as yesterday, three horses were attacked. It’s not as serious as our horses, but they need to be taken care of,” Spurlin said.
“It’s not just our cows here, it’s my daughters’ 4-H project. We have a house, we have very small children, and I’m afraid these dogs will chase the next dog.If they can bring down an 800 pound cow, a 30 pound child is nothing.” added John Spurlin.
So far, Spurlins has spent over $800 on veterinary bills and $200 on additional medication. Livestock inspectors and vets will be back on Monday.
Pima Animal Care Center said it was unable to comment at this time as it was a public inquiry. If you see a dog attacking an animal or person, be sure to contact law enforcement and animal control.
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