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The dog pack was witnessed in Air Ronge and the nearby LLRIB reserve. (Image Credit: Submitted photo/ Ruby Halkett)
103 strays since Jan.

LLRIB responds after dangerous dog pack draws concerns in communities

May 5, 2026 | 5:11 PM

The Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB) has released a statement meant to assure all community members they are actively addressing the ongoing issue of stray and roaming dogs across its communities. 

The statement comes after a pack of dogs caused havoc in Air Ronge and nearby LLRIB reserves last month. larongeNOW was able to confirm a 29-year-old man was attacked on April 25 in Air Ronge. He sustained eight bites on his legs.  

Some of the injuries to the 29-year-old.
Some of the injuries to the 29-year-old. (Image Credit: Submitted photo)

According to the LLRIB, between Jan. 1 and April 10, 2026, animal control has successfully apprehended and re-homed 103 stray dogs, placing them in safe homes in southern Saskatchewan. In 2025, LLRIB apprehended and re-homed 175 stray dogs.  

“This work is ongoing and reflects the band’s commitment to improving public safety and animal welfare,” the statement reads. 

“LLRIB has an Animal Care and Control Bylaw, ratified by chief and council in May 2024, which is actively being enforced. Our Animal Control Officers are working daily, including weekends and statutory holidays, to apprehend, impound, and care for stray dogs. Our current facility has a maximum capacity of 10 dogs, and staff provide daily feeding, watering, and care under often challenging conditions.” 

The statement adds while enforcement efforts continue, it is important for all community members to understand that the root cause of the stray dog issue is uncontrolled breeding. Dogs that are not spayed or neutered will continue to reproduce. When a female dog is in heat, it attracts multiple unneutered male dogs, often forming packs. This natural behavior can create dangerous situations for the dog, nearby residents, and the community at large. 

“LLRIB has spay and neuter clinics available at no cost to dog owners, yet participation remains a critical challenge,” the statement notes. 

“Without responsible ownership, the dog population will continue to grow and pose increasing risks, including the potential for serious incidents.” 

The band is currently exploring solutions to strengthen its response, including, increasing animal control staffing levels, constructing a larger, more suitable dog pound facility, and partnering with the tri-community to coordinate regional efforts.  

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com