Good Samaritan Rescues Dog Chained and Crying on Remote Trail in Wildfire Zone

Janet O’Reilly has been closely monitoring the wildfire burning near her community on Vancouver Island, with her home sitting right on the edge of the current evacuation alert zone. Still, she continues to take early morning walks with her dogs.

A few days ago, during one of those walks along a remote trail in Whiskey Creek, she heard a dog crying. She called out to see if anyone was around but couldn’t find the dog.

Later that afternoon, a neighbor told her he had also heard barking and had come across a dog chained to a tree in the same area.

O’Reilly shared what happened in a Facebook post:

“A neighbor just came by, he ran across a dog tied to a tree on a 1 foot chain…no water or food. In distress. Same place I hear her crying earlier.”

They immediately began calling every agency they could think of including the SPCA, animal control, conservation officers, and the RCMP, but no one was able to help. So O’Reilly and the neighbor decided to take action themselves.

Bringing along a bowl of water and treats, O’Reilly and her neighbor returned to the trail. The dog turned out to be young, friendly, and very thirsty. At first, O’Reilly wasn’t sure how she’d free the animal without bolt cutters. Luckily, the chain was secured with a carabiner.

Back at home, O’Reilly contacted the SPCA, who came and picked up the dog and took her to the shelter. O’Reilly, already caring for two dogs and two cats, wasn’t able to keep her, especially with the wildfire evacuation still looming.

The SPCA noted the dog was healthy, friendly and in good shape with no signs of long term physical neglect. They said they’ve picked up dogs roaming but never one who has been chained up like this one. Now named “Eve” (O’Reilly’s middle name), the authorities are looking for anyone who might know her. If no one comes forward, Eve will be put up for adoption.