Hydro Man's Dog Reportedly Euthanized By Tail Pipe Of Police Car

Gan Matthews, News 9

HYDRO, Oklahoma -- Many Hydro residents believe the story has been blown out of proportion, but the story of Edwin Fry and his dog is generating comment far beyond the small town in Caddo County.

In Hydro, dogs are supposed to be on a leash or behind a fence. But city officials say they have a problem with dogs running loose. Recently they say three dogs mauled a 700 pound calf.

"It was mauled to the point where the vet had to put that calf down we were fearful for the children with all the loose dogs we have in town," said Hydro attorney Michael Entz.

Fry's loose poodle Buddy Tough was picked up and put in the pound.

"I called and they said the fine's $100. I said ‘I didn't pay no fine.' A hundred dollars it wasn't supposed to be only $25," Fry said.

So the 73-year-old broke into the local dog pound on his riding lawnmower armed with bolt cutters to rescue and free his poodle. Fry was arrested and charged with misdemeanor breaking and entering and Buddy Tough went back to the dog pound.

When none of Fry's relatives claimed the dog after four days, the city euthanized the dog with carbon monoxide.

"It was done by our police department in accordance with the procedures on the books at the time," said Entz.

One account said the carbon monoxide came from the tail pipe of a police car. Edwin Fry is angry about how his dog died. He says he's getting calls of support.

"I think I've got phone calls from every 51 states. I understand it's running on the news and the papers in 51 states," said Fry.

Hydro may soon hire a vet to euthanize dogs in the future. Until then, Hydro residents would like the story about Edwin Fry and his dog to just go away.

The Hydro City Council will discuss the dog matter on Tuesday.

News 9's legal analyst Irven Box said under Oklahoma law cities with less than 10,000 in population--like Hydro, are required to euthanize animals in an "acceptable, humane way."