Whitehorse death row dog wins reprieve

A 16-month-old Yukon Supreme Court saga over Trevor, a Whitehorse shelter dog that was spared from euthanization last year, may finally be ending with the dog staying alive for the time being.

Trevor's case has been before the court since July 2009 when a temporary injunction was issued to stop Whitehorse bylaw officers from destroying the troubled and potentially dangerous Rottweiler-shepherd cross. The injunction was extended the following month.

The City of Whitehorse and Humane Society Yukon, which is currently caring for Trevor, have since beenin court to try tofind a new home for Trevor that would satisfy all parties involved.

But the society has yet to secure a court-approved foster home for Trevor, despite numerous offers from prospective dog owners, in part because of safety concerns raised by neighbouring residents.

In a written decision released Tuesday, Justice Ron Veale said he appreciates the city's weariness with the lengthy court process one that the city estimates will cost taxpayers $45,000 but turned down the city's request to have Trevor put down.

Humane society to continue care

Veale ruled that there is no reason to destroy Trevor as long as he has a responsible owner the humane society which has been caring for the dog for more thana year at its Mae Bachur Animal Shelter.

The judge ordered the humane society to continue managing Trevor in the interests of public safety, as well as pay all costs associated with the dog's care.

Veale also ordered the society to continue adhering to the court's strict requirements on supervising Trevor, which includes muzzling the dog and keeping a short leash on him when he is taken out of his isolation pen at the shelter. Any breaches must be reported to city officials, he said.

Ifthe humane society finds a suitable foster home for Trevor, Veale said the City of Whitehorse retains the right to veto or approve the proposed adoption.

"We're very relieved," Rachel Westfall, a director with the humane society, told CBC News on Tuesday.

"This is essentially allowing us to proceed with the work we've been doing with Trevor and [it] has taken a huge, huge weight off us in terms of the court process."

Holding out for a home

Westfall said she still hopes to have Trevor adopted by John Obermeyer of Burwash Landing, Yukon, who has made a long-standing offer to take the dog in.

The Kluane First Nation in Burwash Landing said last month that it would not accept the risk of letting such a temperamental dog with high needs and potential risk into the small community.

But Westfall said she has convinced First Nation officials to reconsider Obermeyer's offer. The First Nation is expected to discuss the matter at a council meeting later this month.

"It would be wonderful if Burwash would come through. I know John Obermeyer out there just really would like to work with Trevor," Westfall said.

"He's had his heart set on this for well over a year now and it would be wonderful if that could work. If it doesn't, we'll get creative."

Trevor's saga began early last year when he was rescued from abuse and brought to the animal shelter. He was found with an ingrown collar in his neck.

Trevor was adopted out several months later, but by July he was surrendered to the Whitehorse pound following some reported attacks on people. He was deemed to be a dangerous animal and was slated to be destroyed.

AB.C.-based animal behaviour specialist later concluded that Trevor would likely remain an anti-social and aggressive dog, but could be managed by the right owner.