LAS CRUCES, N.M. (KRQE) – Las Cruces police are releasing body camera video of the moments just before an officer shot and killed a dog during a welfare check on Monday. It started when a man called officers to check on a suicidal relative living next door.

When police arrived at the caller’s home, a dog came out the front door and charged at the officer. That’s when one of the officers fired three rounds at the dog. Police say another dog also ran towards officers but stopped on its own.

LCPD says no charges are expected to be filed and the officer who discharged his duty-issue firearm has four years of experience in law enforcement and has been with the Las Cruces Police Department since November 2020; He is expected to return to his regular duties later this week.

LCPD says the subject of the initial welfare call, showed no threat to cause harm to himself or others and he refused all offers of assistance and transportation for medical assistance.

LCPD says the following tips are for pet owners who request a response from police, fire, EMTs or any other first responders:

  • Humanely kennel or temporarily restrain your pet – particularly dogs that can be aggressive or assertive toward strangers – before first responders arrive on scene.
  • If possible, keep pets temporarily confined to a separate yard, room or living quarters while first responders are on scene.
  • Ensure that pets cannot escape their yard or quarters.
  • Ensure that pets always have an adequate supply of fresh drinking water and shade in their permanent and temporary quarters.
  • Have a plan in place, beforehand, on who can care for your pets in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as a sudden absence, medical emergency, hospitalization, etc.
  • Make sure the person responsible for taking care of your pet during an unforeseen absence has vital information such as feeding schedules, medications and veterinarian contact information.
  • If you live alone with pets, leave caretaker contact information in a visible location within the home so first responders or Animal Control can reach them if you become incapacitated or otherwise have to leave pets unattended.
  • Keep pets up to date on vaccinations.
  • Ensure that pets are chipped or wearing a collar that clearly identifies ownership and contact information.