Fresno County, California – On Saturday night, a Fresno County Sheriff’s Office K9 died after being frightened by an illegal firework. According to the authorities, K9 Santi was off duty on Saturday night and at home with his handler.
Around 8:30 p.m. the Belgian Malinois was let outside for a potty break when a firework went off, scaring the dog badly enough that he jumped the fence around the yard and ran. The sheriff’s office described the deadly aftermath:
The deputy immediately chased after Santi, shouting commands to come back, but the continued sound of fireworks caused Santi to keep sprinting away. The deputy ultimately found Santi badly injured on the road near Shaw and Helm Avenues in Clovis. The dog was taken to a pet hospital where he later died.
Whoever hit the five-year-old dog did not stop. An investigation into the deadly incident remains ongoing. Anyone with information can contact Clovis Police at (559) 324-2800.
This was not a matter of training, or a lack thereof. This was a dog who was terrified enough by an illegal firework that he jumped a fence and blindly ran. The sheriff’s office said:
Law enforcement and firefighters constantly warn residents about the dangers of using illegal fireworks, which can result in fires, injuries, distress to animals and an overall disruption to a person’s quality of life. Sadly, it is not enough of a deterrent for some as blatant disregard for the law continues.
Rest in peace Santi.
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