Blood Tribe Chief Travis Plaited Hair, speaking at an unrelated event in 2025. (Image Credit: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Blood Tribe issues state of emergency after dog attack

Feb 3, 2026 | 1:27 PM

A recent incident on a local First Nation has prompted action by council.

The Blood Tribe Council has issued a state of emergency after a dog bite incident that occurred on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026.

“Out of respect for the family involved, and to protect their privacy, no additional personal details will be released at this time. Council’s prayers are with the family affected by this incident, and Council extends its support to them during this difficult time,” reads a statement from the Blood Tribe.

Council says it is working with administration and the Blood Tribe Police Service to ensure a full and thorough investigation and response.

The state of emergency will remain in place until further notice, or until Council determines that risks to public health and safety have been adequately addressed. They have not determined whether further emergency powers will be exercised under the Emergency Protection Bylaw.

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As explained by the Blood Tribe, the declaration does a few things:

• Enforcement of Dog Control Bylaw – Animal Control Officers remain fully authorized to enforce the Dog Control Bylaw and have been directed to do so specifically with respect to the animals reported to be involved in this incident.
• Seizure and Assessment of Dogs – Under the Dog Control Bylaw, Animal Control Officers may seize and remove dogs in situations involving bylaw offences, including where animals are unsupervised or have inflicted an unprovoked attack on a person. Once safely seized, any dog will be assessed by a licensed veterinarian, who will provide professional recommendations to address any associated risks. All subsequent steps regarding seized dogs will comply with the Dog Control Bylaw.
• Public Advisory – Blood Tribe Members and residents of the Blood Reserve are urged to exercise extra caution around unfamiliar or unattended dogs. Parents and caregivers are advised to closely supervise children at all times.

The public is encouraged to report aggressive dog behaviour, attacks, or other concerns immediately to the Blood Tribe Land Management Department – Livestock Control Officers (Animal Control Officers), at 403-634-9419.

The Blood Tribe says it will not be providing any further information on this matter at this time.