MANDEVILLE, La. (KLFY) -- A Mandeville family has lost its pet after their neighbor allegedly shot their dog, authorities said.

Stanley Taylor, 72, was charged with alleged aggravated cruelty to animals.

"We're so sorry for this unfortunate chain of events that led to Laika's death," said Jeff Dorson, Humane Society of Louisiana director. "We know what it's like to lose a beloved pet, and we hope the family will somehow recover and find peace."

Officials said Ricky and Courtney Spell let their 8-year-old husky, Laika, out to play in the snow Jan. 21, when Ricky rushed outside to the sound of a gunshot. Their neighbor, Taylor, had allegedly shot and killed the dog after she wandered out of their yard and onto his property on N. Taylor Road.

“She had cataracts and couldn’t see where she was,” Courtney said. “He allegedly shot her point blank in the neck. She died instantly. My husband had to wake me up to tell me, and I fell to my knees.”

Authorities said upon hearing the gunshot, Ricky ran outside, at which time Taylor came out and informed Ricky that he had shot the dog, thinking she was a coyote.

“Her distinctive silver and white coat made her easily recognizable, especially in broad daylight and at close range,” Ricky said. “My neighbor’s excuse is difficult to accept, given his familiarity with Laika’s appearance.”

Taylor was arrested and was released three days later on a $5,000 bond. A court date has been set for April 23. If found guilty, Taylor could be fined up to $20,000 or imprisoned for up to ten years.

“As a family dog, Laika was beloved by me, my husband, and our three daughters,” Courtney said. “This has been so hard because everything reminds us of her.”

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