A Sooke couple is pleading for answers after their two dogs were shot last week, leaving one dead and the other in critical condition.
Sooke RCMP launched an investigation on Sunday, October 19th after receiving a report of two dogs being shot in the 2500-block of Farmer Drive. When officers arrived, one dog was already dead while the other was rushed for emergency veterinary care.
The couple, Kaylee Peaker and Gabe Nelson, identified their dogs as Silo and Riptide (Rip). Sadley, 15-year-old Silo died from his injuries, while 3-year-old Riptide remains in intensive care at WAVES Veterinary.
“Riptide is currently fighting for his life,” Peaker told Victoria Buzz.
“He’s had five blood transfusions, chest tubes on both sides, and fluid drained multiple times. The bullet came in through his left side, grazed his lung, and damaged his liver. He’s young and strong, and he’s fighting.”
Peaker told Victoria Buzz the dogs were outdoors on Nelson’s rural property, playing near the forested edge, only minutes before the shooting. The dogs, who are described as friendly and well-known in the community, were not roaming far from home.
“They were by Gabe’s side within five to ten minutes before the shooting,” she said.
“They were playing with another dog that lives on the property. Silo was meant to stay home that day, but he wanted to come along.”
According to Peaker, Rip managed to run home after being shot, “screaming and yelping to find Gabe,” before being rushed to the vet. Surveillance footage from a nearby property reportedly captured the dogs playing moments before the shots were fired.
Peaker described Silo as a rescue from Yellowknife through the organization MEXPUP, an energetic dog who spent years exploring the backroads of Sooke. Despite his age, she said he remained healthy and active.
“Silo is so many people’s heart dog, not just mine,” she said. “He had no health issues besides hearing and vision loss. Riptide really brought the puppy back out in him.”
Riptide, adopted in 2022, was raised around other animals and had even competed in obedience events. Peaker said he’s a “sweet, adventurous dog” who loves quadding, swimming, and going on hikes.
“If you’re up for an adventure, Rip says when and where — let’s get at it,” she said.
The couple said they’ve never had any issues or complaints about their dogs and described the shooting as a “senseless crime.”
“These dogs were not after any livestock,” Peaker said. “They’ve been around animals their whole lives with no problems. Everyone who met them fell in love with them.”
The family says the community has rallied behind them through messages of support and donations to help cover emergency vet costs.
A GoFundMe set up by relatives has already raised thousands toward Rip’s care.
Donations can also be made directly to WAVES Veterinary Hospital via e-transfer to info@wavesvet.com.
“We can’t thank the community enough,” Peaker said. “We’re heartbroken, but the love and support have been overwhelming. You’re supposed to feel safe where you live — unfortunately, that’s not the reality for many here.”
She urged whoever is responsible to come forward.
“You took a loved member of my family and attempted to take another. We deserve the truth.”
In an update Thursday morning, Peaker said the chest tubes have helped Riptide immensely and that he’s healing remarkably well.
“He’s doing really well today,” she said, adding that the tubes have now been removed successfully and he’s starting to act more like himself again.
In an email to Victoria Buzz, BCRCMP said there are no updates at this time. Sooke RCMP say the investigation remains active and are asking anyone with information or surveillance footage from the area to contact them at 250-642-5241.
