In everything Windy City Canine Rescue does, we try our hardest to be open and transparent. And for that reason, we are sharing this difficult news.
Nilo was euthanized today.
You’ll remember Nilo who came to us from Cuba. The story of his arrival is here.
Sadly, last week Nilo attacked a friend of his owner, leaving her with stitches on her face and the possibility of plastic surgery. Nilo knew this person well. The bite was unprovoked.
This decision didn’t come easily for Nilo’s owner. We provided what we do for all of our adoptive homes – support and resources. We discussed many factors including his traumatic history, some concerning behaviors, his overall temperament, and most importantly his quality of life. An experienced dog trainer and two separate veterinarians were consulted – all of whom knew Nilo and had worked with him. We examined our alternatives, but with all of the facts on the table and with the recommendation of these professionals, it was determined by Nilo’s owner that this was the best decision for Nilo’s safety and for those around him.
Thank you to APAC – Varadero for their support through this process and for their efforts to provide alternatives. Our hearts are heavy and our thoughts are with you, along with his owner and his foster homes here in Canada. We know you’re all hurting today too.
Nilo, please know that you were loved and cared for. So many people worked hard for you, to give you all the opportunities you deserved. Rest easy, sweet boy.
My heart goes out to all of you involved in this most traumatic and difficult decision and I know that reaching that decision must have been gut wrenching for all involved. I pray that your sorrow will ease and that you can continue to do the wonderful unselfish work you do.
RIP Nilo
Condolences to all who hold him in their hearts.
I was really sorry to hear about Nilo’s passing. It’s always very hard for me as I am sure it was for you who worked with him to hear that he had to be put down. I sympathize because a few years ago, I had gotten a 5 month old Alaskan Husky from the Lethbridge pound and through problem circumstances I couldn’t find a rental that would allow me to have my two huskies. She had a troubled life that little girl but I had such high hopes for her and out of desperation, I had called different places looking for help with her. I am a dog trainer myself but because I couldn’t have her with me, I ended up leaving her and my Siberian with my ex here in Taber. He had a shepherd-lab that had aggression issues and both of them, being alphas and loving him got into a tangle one night when I was there feeding them. She attacked the shepherd-lab and stripped his ear of skin so that it bled everywhere. Two hours later she went at him again. By this time she was 20 months old and I had NO recourse but to put her down. I was heartbroken because she was to be an assistance dog and she had started coming along very well, but because I couldn’t be with her, she lost her life. I still miss her very much. She would have been 4 years old this past weekend. She was my angel, so you see I do know. It’s not fair.