Janet O’Reilly had been closely monitoring a wildfire threatening her community on Vancouver Island, where her home was located near the edge of an evacuation alert zone. Despite the potential danger, she continued taking her dogs for early morning walks along nearby trails. During one of these walks in Whiskey Creek, she heard a dog crying somewhere in the distance. She called out and searched the area, but she couldn’t find the animal.
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Later that afternoon, a neighbor brought her some troubling news. He had discovered a dog chained to a tree in the same remote location where Janet had heard the cries earlier. The dog was attached to a chain barely one foot long, with no food or water. She appeared distressed and desperately needed help.
Janet and her neighbor immediately contacted several organizations, including the SPCA, animal control, conservation officers, and the RCMP. Unfortunately, none could provide immediate assistance. Concerned about leaving the helpless animal behind, they decided to rescue her themselves.
Carrying fresh water and treats, the pair returned to the remote trail. When they approached the dog, they discovered that she was young, friendly, and extremely thirsty. She eagerly accepted the water and welcomed their attention.
Janet initially worried that freeing the dog would require bolt cutters. Fortunately, she noticed that the chain was secured with a carabiner, allowing them to release her without any special equipment. After being freed, the grateful dog could finally leave the tree where she had been abandoned.
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Once they returned home, Janet contacted the SPCA, which arranged to collect the dog and transport her to a shelter. Although Janet wanted to help further, she already had two dogs and two cats. With the wildfire evacuation threat still looming, adopting another animal was not a realistic option.
The rescued dog was named Eve, after Janet’s middle name. According to the BC SPCA, Eve was healthy, friendly, and in good physical condition, with no obvious signs of long-term physical neglect.
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Authorities are now searching for Eve’s owner or anyone who might recognize her. If nobody comes forward to claim her, she will eventually become available for adoption. Until then, Eve will remain in the care of the shelter, where she can receive the attention and protection she needs while waiting for a loving forever home.
