In Winchester, Virginia, a diverse group of protesters, including dogs, gathered outside a courthouse to voice their opposition to a case involving the seizure of five German Shepherds. The dogs’ owner, Sean Smith, appealed against the August ruling that accused his dogs of depredation for allegedly chasing cows on a local farm. As jury selection commenced, the protest aimed to spotlight the perceived injustice of the situation, rallying support for Smith and his dogs.
Dogs joined people in protest outside Winchester courthouse in case where 5 German Shepherds were seized
Among the protestors was Jordan, a German Shepherd-Malamute mix, and his brother Stevie, both adorned with signs expressing their plea for justice. As the community and drivers passing by showed their support, it was clear that the bond between the animals and their owners was a powerful aspect of the protest. “These two together, they have such a strong bond,” shared Mikaela Hicks, owner of Jordan and Stevie. Moreover, she empathized with the plight of the seized German Shepherds.
As per The Winchester Star, the controversy stems from an incident where the dogs allegedly chased cows, with one cow purportedly injured, though no eyewitness accounts confirm this. Pending the outcome of Smith’s appeal, the Frederick County Esther Boyd Animal Shelter has confined the dogs. Consequently, the incident has ignited a passionate response from both locals and social media supporters familiar with the German Shepherds.
Supporters, including the Coakleys from Shenandoah County, held signs like “Honk 4 Shepherds” and “Reinstate Sean Smith’s German Shepherds Wrongfully Seized in Virginia,” arguing for the good behavior and character of the dogs. In addition, some protesters, including Frederick County residents Robert and Celena Wood, alongside Rose Allen, hinted at political bias influencing the case, labeling it as an “abuse of power” and even a “witch hunt.”
