As the contracted animal control provider for the Township of Langley since 2003, the Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS) seized the dog named Enzo on April 10, 2024, under a warrant issued by a Judicial Justice of the Peace pursuant to section 49 of the Community Charter. LAPS followed established legal procedures and acted within our enforcement authority and obligations at every stage of this case.
Public Safety Investigation
The application for a warrant followed a public safety investigation that determined there were reasonable grounds to believe that Enzo was a “dangerous dog” under provincial legislation. The investigation examined two serious attacks within a two-month span—one in January 2024 resulting in significant injury and another in February 2024 causing life-altering injuries—as well as multiple reports of concerning behaviour from neighbours and other community members. LAPS sought and obtained the warrant only after we were unable to secure Enzo’s voluntary surrender.
The court-authorized seizure was carried out by trained professionals, following established safety protocols designed to protect everyone involved—including Enzo. Enzo sustained injuries during the seizure when he lunged at the catch pole being held by enforcement officers and bit down forcefully on it, chipping his mandible and breaking two front teeth. In order to ensure Enzo’s safety and that of the officers, LAPS called the owners to assist with containing Enzo. Enzo’s injuries were promptly assessed, and he was seen by his regular veterinarian at their earliest available appointment, which was the next day. Enzo was given pain medication to ensure his comfort until his appointment. Once treated by the veterinarian, Enzo quickly and fully recovered from his injuries.
We note that this matter has received extensive media coverage, including an article in the Langley Advance Times on January 9, 2025. Given that this matter is before the Court, we are limited in what we will say regarding the incidents that are subject of these proceedings.
Enzo's Care
We continue to care for Enzo while the proceeding remains before the Court. He receives regular veterinary oversight from a board-certified animal shelter veterinarian, as well as from his regular veterinarian, to support his physical and emotional wellbeing. Enzo engages in daily enrichment and playtime and is fed a balanced high-quality diet. He lives in a double-sided secure kennel run giving him access to the outdoors during the day, at his choice. His kennel is cleaned at least twice daily, and more often if required. In support of Enzo’s wellbeing, LAPS facilitates one-hour visits with his owners each day from Monday to Friday, including access to an outdoor grass field, dog pool, and enrichment toys. LAPS has also made its facilities available to Enzo’s regular veterinarian. Our team works with Enzo daily to ensure he remains comfortable and engaged, providing him with the same compassion, professionalism and respect we show to every animal in our shelter—including the 90 other animals currently in our care.
We understand this situation is distressing for everyone involved, and we take all concerns involving animal welfare and public safety seriously. We remain committed to fulfilling our responsibilities with transparency, accountability and kindness—upholding the dignity of every animal at LAPS and ensuring a safe and respectful environment for our staff, volunteers, supporters and community.