Shooter joins the electoral board in one of the polling precincts in Bais City, Negros Oriental during the May 9 elections. (Photo courtesy of Fr. Conrad Lagarde)
DUMAGUETE CITY –– As voters entered a polling precinct in Negros Oriental on May 9, a “watch dog” caught their attention.
A Japanese Spitz dog named “Shooter” joined the personnel of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), who monitored the conduct of the elections in Bais City, Negros Oriental.
Shooter walked to the polling rooms and sat beside election watchers while waiting for the results of the elections.
Shooter not only eased the fatigue by the polling staff in Bais City, he also drew smiles from voters.
Fr. Conrad Lagarde, the dog owner, said Shooter had been consistent with his personality.
Shooter stays near his owner during a Mass at the San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish in Bais City, Negros Oriental. (Photo courtesy of Fr. Conrad Lagarde)
“Whether at Mass or in our personal space, he is friendly, vibrant, and appears to be the sweetest rest for people to see. He is indeed a friend to all,” Lagarde told the Inquirer.
According to Lagarde, Shooter is seen mostly walking along with altar boys during Masses and stays beside him while he delivers the homily.
“Shooter understands people. He’s like a human being by the way he acts,” the priest said.
Lagarde believed that his way of communicating with Shooter helped the dog have a sense of involvement.
Shooter and his relationship with humans bring a significant message to the community: “Love transcends human relationships.”
Shooter attentively listens to Fr. Conrad Lagarde’s homily at the San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish in Bais City, Negros Oriental. (Photo courtesy of Fr. Conrad Lagarde)
“I believe that the church is true to all and is open to all creatures since they are part of God’s masterpieces. To recall, St. Francis of Assissi emphasized love for animals and other earthly creatures,” Lagarde said.
Priests, as part of their vow, technically live alone—no wives and biological children. However, Lagarde said Shooter made him feel the “spirit of family and companionship.”
“Shooter filled the gap of loneliness not only to me but also to everyone who met my dog. He is indeed a friend, a baby, and a family to me,” he said.