Dog dies after being dragged behind car along Trans-Canada Highway

Police say charges are pending against a Calgary woman accused of dragging a dog behind her car on the Trans-Canada Highway.

The border collie cross suffered "extensive" injuries and had to be euthanized, RCMPsaid Tuesday.

The incident began around noon on Sunday when a driver on the Trans-Canada Highway approached a CP Rail police officer.

The driver reported seeing a black Pontiac Vibe dragging a dog on a leash down the highway, about halfway between Calgary and Strathmore, Alta.

The CP officer contacted Strathmore RCMP and together they searched for the vehicle but were unable to find it.

About six hours later, police received a report of a vehicle that was left in a field with an injured dog tied to it.

Dog 'critically injured'

Police found the vehicle, which matched the earlier description, nearthe intersection of Range Road 265 and Township Road 242.

The dog leashed to the car was "critically injured" and "suffering and from injuries consistent with having been dragged behind it,"RCMPsaid in a release.

Police took the dog to an emergency veterinary clinic, where it was evaluated and the decision was made to euthanize the animal.

Arrest and pending charge

Police later located the owner of the vehicle, a 40-year-old Calgary resident, and arrested her.

RCMPsaid the woman's name could not be released as of early Tuesday afternoon as the criminal charge of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal was still pending.

Anywitnesses who have not already spoken to police are asked to contact the Strathmore RCMP at403-934-3968.

Strathmoreis about 40 kilometres east of Calgary.

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