WHISTLER (NEWS1130) – A sled dogs advocate wants tour companies to be careful when it comes to the future well-being of animals.

Sue Eckersley, who serves on the Board of Directors of Whistler Animals Galore, wants operators and consumers to do their part.

She hopes tour companies will keep an eye on who they work with, and hopes patrons ask the right questions.

“I think there are problems and I think when you’re looking to book a dog sled tour, or be involved in that industry in that way, a little due diligence is important.”

She doesn’t condemn the entire industry but says there are some ways it can be improved.

Eckersley is disappointed by the three-year probation sentence given to Robert Fawcett, who pleaded guilty to the inhuman killing of nine sled dogs in Whistler in 2010.

She says there are lessons to be learned that people can carry into the future. “I hope it’s not forgotten. I think it’s important for consumers in the dog sled industry, that they’re careful who they work with.”

Eckersley says it’s up to the community to ensure tragic deaths, such as these, never happen again.