Didsbury man pleads not guilty in dog's death

An Alberta man accused of animal cruelty in the dragging death of a dog has pleaded not guilty.

Daniel Haskett, 19,of Didsbury did not make an appearance in court Monday. Instead, his lawyer, who has told his client to stay away from court because of threats from animal lovers, made the plea on Haskett's behalf.

In October, a Labrador retriever-collie cross named Daisy Duke was found bleeding on a road, its muzzle and legs bound with duct tape and a tow rope around its neck. The dog had to be put down.

Police said the dog was Haskett's family pet.

Haskettand a 17-year-old, who can't be named because of his age, have been charged with injuring or endangering an animal and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Haskett has also been charged with obstructing justice.

He is to beback in court in May.

In another development,a mancharged with mischief in connection with a protest outside the courthouse during Haskett's previous appearance also appeared in court Monday.

The man, 34, will return to court later this month to enter a plea.