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WARNING: DISTRESSING CONTENT
Queensland Police have defended the actions of officers who shot a pet dog on a Mount Isa street after it was struck by a police vehicle, saying the animal was so badly injured it was the “most humane” option available.
The incident unfolded on Mill Street at Pioneer about 3.40pm on Sunday and has sparked outrage online after distressing footage of the dog’s final moments circulated on social media.
Video from the scene shows emotional residents hurling abuse at officers as gunshots ring out while police euthanise the animal. A distraught woman can be seen being led away from the scene as onlookers yell that she “loved that dog”.
In a statement, Queensland Police said a marked patrol vehicle was leaving an address at low speed when the dog suddenly emerged from under or behind a parked car and was run over.
“Neither the driver nor the passenger saw the dog prior to the impact,” a police spokesperson said.
Police said a senior supervising officer arrived within three minutes and found the animal suffering significant injuries.
“The decision was made to euthanise the dog immediately to avoid further suffering for the animal,” the spokesperson said.
“This incident was traumatic for the officers involved, the community and the dog’s family, however it was considered the most humane and suitable course of action available at the time.”
Body-worn camera footage has since been reviewed by senior officers.
Police said the vision confirmed the animal had suffered serious injuries and that officers acted to prevent prolonged suffering.
“All police use of force incidents, including the lethal use of force against an animal, are recorded and reviewed by senior officers, and the decisions and actions are reviewed in accordance with policy and procedures,” the spokesperson said.
The footage has fuelled anger on social media with some demanding an investigation into the incident, while others questioned why the animal was not transported to a veterinarian.
The RSPCA said it was aware of the “distressing” footage.
“Any seriously injured animal should receive prompt assistance, and where euthanasia is the best option to prevent further suffering, it should be carried out promptly, using a method that minimises pain, fear and distress,” an RSPCA Queensland spokesperson said.
Police have confirmed senior officers have spoken with the dog’s family.
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