Wyoming man offering $1,500 reward for information on dog

By Jeff Bunn
Capital Journal staff
Published/Last Modified on Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009 - 02:50:27 am CST

PIERRE — Months after his beloved Chesapeake Bay Retriever was found dead in Hughes County, Mac Mackaben had given up hunting, was getting ready to sell his guns and had sworn off South Dakota.

Now, the 60-year old Wyoming man is back doing some of the things he loves and searching for the person who killed his treasured dog and friend, Little Kit Carson, near the beginning of August about 400 yards away from Christensen Farms.

“I don’t want to see somebody do this to somebody else,” he said. “It hurt me so bad. I got somebody to watch my dogs. I took 10 weeks off just to travel. This dog was my hunting partner. I made money with him, but the main thing is he was my friend.”

Courtesy photo
Little Kit Carson, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever owned by Wyoming man Mac Mackaben, was shot and killed during a hunting trip in Hughes County. Mackaben is offering a $1,500 reward for information about the shooting.
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Mackaben is offering $1,500 for information leading to the conviction of the person who shot Little Kit, a purebred trained for retrieval and the rescue of avalanche victims.

Mackaben, who spends time in parts of the west for hunting, fly fishing and back country skiing, said he was staying with a friend near Spring Creek with his trained dogs when he let them out to run to Lake Oahe. He said he whistled for the dogs to return and all did except Little Kit, a dog bred to be happy and with facial features Mackaben prefers, he said.

“My stud dog or my best friend dog or the best dog anybody’s ever seen, he didn’t come,” Mackaben said. “He’s never once in his life wandered. I started looking around and I said, ‘If I shoot a gun, he’ll come running.’

“I shot a gun and nothing. Then, one of the neighbors came over and said they saw the dog and they yelled at it and it turned around like it was going to come back. I thought it’d be right around, maybe doing something. I was worried more about the snakes.”

After putting up posters and contacting pilots to look for Little Kit, Mackaben said he received a phone call about Little Kit’s whereabouts.

“Somebody called and they found the dog on the dead-end road to Christensen farms,” he said. “You can see the tire tracks coming right over there to put the gun out the window and shoot him. Somebody just wanted to kill some

thing — to kill a dog. Why would anybody kill a dog?”

Mackaben said the dog had never wandered before and might have been following a smell from the hog farm.

The more than 100-pound dog was different than the hundreds of dogs Mackaben’s raised. He said he was once offered $55,000 for the dog and it was the offspring of a beloved dog someone stole from Mackaben’s kennel. He said Little Kit was set to grace dog food bags of a company that sponsors Mackaben.

“I got fantastic dogs,” he said. “But I’ve only had two that were remarkable. I wouldn’t have sold him for $100,000.”

Little Kit was seven years old, at his prime, according to Mackaben who said Little Kit’s puppies are like their father but do not have his colored coat that made him ideal for hunting pheasants in the prairie.

“He had the same heart and soul I have,” Mackaben said. “Why does that special one come along and everything lines up?”

At one point, Mackaben said he vowed to never return to South Dakota or go hunting again. He said he’s changed his mind with the help of friends and family.

“You can’t judge everybody by one person,” he said. “It did affect me. What got me through was my friends and my one son. He said, ‘If you died, wouldn’t you want someone to take the dog out hunting.’ I said, ‘Sure, because he loves it’. He said, ‘The dog would want the same thing.’ Dogs bring happiness to you, but they also bring such pain.”

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Mackaben at 208-841-7600 or the Hughes County Sheriff.

“We have looked into it extensively,” said Hughes County Sheriff Mike Leidholt.

“We’ve basically run out of leads. We’re willing to look more into it if his reward offer brings any more information in.”

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Comments

39 comment(s)

Pierre resident and dog owner. wrote on Dec 7, 2009 1:14 PM:

" Hay "loose Dog" EVERYONE doesn't take their dog to the Dam, go to Laframboise island, or Farm Island. and look at the dogs running loose and crapping buy the road and watch those owners that just drive on by instead of stopping and picking it up, happins at all the above sites, got a better one ives seen this on Laframboise island a dog not on a leash and no owner in sight peeing on the sign that says "Pets must be on a leash" and so do we really need a park for dogs to run? why they arerunningwithoutleashesnow. "

Woof Woof or Bow Wow wrote on Dec 3, 2009 10:11 PM:

" Repeal the leash laws and stop being scared of dogs..................

It would save a lot of tax payer money.............

It would keep the deer and geese and other animals out of town!

That's how you save tax dollars -- think outside the box people....... "

loose dogs wrote on Nov 29, 2009 8:11 AM:

" why was the dog loose? well you dont hunt with a trained dog on a leash now do you? and EVERYONE in town takes their dogs out to Oahe dam area to let them run and play, as Pierre/Ft Pierre are so unfriendly to pets and people with pets that there is no designated off leash area or park specifically for allowing dogs to run and play. Its easier to find on in the center of downtown Manhattan that out here in the middle of nowhere. "

eddie wrote on Nov 23, 2009 9:25 PM:

" Seriously people.......i have a hard time believing this story. Do we know for a fact the dog was shot? Did someone accidently run him over? Why on earth, would you let a dog that you claim to be worth at least $55,000, outside without a leash on him? Is this guy looking for some publicity for some reason? "

Sharon wrote on Nov 23, 2009 4:35 PM:

" Why was he loose? Did they do an autopsy on this dog to see exactly what happened to him? I agree with the poster that said a loose dog near a farm/ranch might get lucky and have someone call in to inquire but most places arent too thrilled with stray dogs strollin through your pastures and corrals. I feel bad the man lost his dog but if he was my dog in a strange place, he wouldnt have been loose. "

Areyoukiddingme wrote on Nov 23, 2009 10:45 AM:

" To those of you accusing Flint. GIVE it up people. Flint would not just go around shooting random dogs come on now. Have something better to do with your lives then sit at your computer and accuse other people of doing something. Wait and see when Flint is found NOT guility in the dually case then you will feel like a bunch of idiots. Flint may smoke weed and drink but that alone doesn't make him a dog killer. My goodness. Yall make Ft. Pierre look worse then Flint does. "

Another dog lover wrote on Nov 19, 2009 2:30 PM:

" I also, am sad for your loss. Like many, I have a dog that is part of the family. One possibilty is that the dog was hit by a truck or combine and injured so badly he had to be shot to end his suffering. I am not looking through rose-colored glasses, just saying it's a possibility. Most people here appreciate good dogs, especially beautiful dogs so obviously trained. "

Dusty Road wrote on Nov 19, 2009 1:35 PM:

" I highly doubt the hog confinement people had anything to do with the shooting unless this dog can open doors and get inside the buildings, none of the hogs are outside and the people who run the operation love animals. "

about teenagers wrote on Nov 19, 2009 10:19 AM:

" the reason people blame teenagers around the are for everything is because there's reason to. I have seen more trouble caused down by my apartments near steamboat park due to teenagers, starting fires, throwing firecrackers at the buildings, breaking car windows, theft. I speak of 16-18 year olds not youngsters. there is nothing for them to do in this town so they drive around and drink secretly, wander around the country shooting things illegally--this time it was someones dog and not wildlife. Pierre and Ft Pierre need to wake up and start PARENTING. "

anonymous wrote on Nov 19, 2009 9:38 AM:

" its sad how all people have to do is criticize someone....this man lost his dog/ companion so shut up about what you think he should have done...do you have your dog on a leash when you take him huniting...etc.? I most definitely dont think hes asking for what everyone thinks he should have done different...if you dont have anything good to say about this article dont say it at all... cause in my opinion this isnt here for you to find something bad to say about it... "

pet owner wrote on Nov 19, 2009 7:46 AM:

" Sorry about the dog but...I have a dog and I do not allow him to run unattended.
That is the law. Alot of farmer/ranchers have had to deal with people DUMPING dogs. These dogs then come in and hurt thier animals who are on thier own property. I would say that something like that could also have happened. It did'nt have to be malicious. As for shunning South Dakota that would be your loss.
Its the best place in the world to be from! "

To Nan Purell wrote on Nov 18, 2009 4:54 PM:

" I think you are in the wrong article. Give it up! "

Sad Story wrote on Nov 18, 2009 3:49 PM:

" This dog was obviously well taken care of and well loved.....he had a better life than most. I think we can cut the leash lecture and pointers on taking care of a dog. MOST livestock owners are not going to shoot a dog for wandering onto their place......doesn't leave or suffering........maybe........agression toward their livestock......yes. The comment on the hunters was pretty scary though, I would hope to heck they know what they are shooting before they pull the trigger. This truly was a sad situation, it's always hard to lose your best friend. "

Consideration wrote on Nov 18, 2009 1:53 PM:

" I am very sorry for your loss. I hope all who come to SD with their dogs will take very seriously what happened. The same fields that nourish our wildlife are also private property. August this year was the height of wheat harvest, with trucks, combines and tractors running all through the area, along with customer cutters passing through to do their jobs. When you treasure an animal, do not let it run loose. Be a safe and courteous guest. "

jason smith wrote on Nov 18, 2009 12:56 PM:

" $55,000 offered for him? That's when two fools met, one for offering $55,000 and him for not taking it! Sorry to here abou the dog, when they run loose in country they tend to chase things and eventually get shot, it never fails, hunting dog on the loose = livestock chaser. NOT BORED TEENAGERS. The sad part of this whole deal is the dog was probably just doing what it was trained to do, it was up to Ma cto keep track of the dog, SD has so much scent in the air, no hunting dog will stay home, PERIOD "

ART wrote on Nov 18, 2009 12:44 PM:

" I feel sorry for you but - why wasn't the dog on a lease? That was just asked for trouble for all the hunters, etc. around and then to see something running around and maybe they thought it was a deer or something that is in season to kill now. "

LC wrote on Nov 18, 2009 8:12 AM:

" Now don't be blaming the Hog Farm employees. The owner said there were tire tracks like a vehicle had driven in and thrown the dog out. Just find the person responsible but don't start blaming the Hog Farm!!! "

Dana wrote on Nov 17, 2009 8:55 PM:

" He really was a beautiful dog. The sad truth...it was either a bored teenager or a farmer who had had to deal with dogs chasing and killing livestock. This type of thing does happen. This is why dogs should never be allowed outside loose and alone. Dogs that run loose get shot or hit by cars. That said, I feel so bad for Mr. Mackaben becasue I do know how he feels. I am devoted to my dogs. "

cody wrote on Nov 17, 2009 7:18 PM:

" SD is a graet place i see y u dont think that im 14 years old and if someone ever did that to my dog they would be sorry.I now how it is to lose a member of the family.i have three a white lab named moose a gold lab named jesse and a black pup named mika.Well i hope you do come back to south dakota i never heard of somthing like this happening here.Im sorry if i hear anything i will tell you.I hope you catch this you now what. "

Student wrote on Nov 17, 2009 5:54 PM:

" (to nice one pierre)
you bet it was teenagers, are you kidding me? I know this is a sad time. I don't think we should just blame kids. "

Seriously wrote on Nov 17, 2009 5:32 PM:

" I'm so sorry to hear this story. I would be at a loss without my dog.

To those of you accusing Flint - I had to laugh when I read the posts. Ok, we all know he has issues, but come on...don't you think he has enough on his plate already?? I am not a "friend" of his, nor do I condone the charges he is facing, but give the kid a break - he's currently in jail and will probably end up in the State Pen. What more do you want?? "

CPH wrote on Nov 17, 2009 3:16 PM:

" What a handsome and smart dog Little Kit was...simply irreplaceable. I am so sorry for your loss. I have had some special dogs in my day, not for monetary value but for my psyche value and sentimental value, and their loss is as painful as losing a member of ones family. Good luck in your search and your healing process. "

Dog Lover wrote on Nov 17, 2009 3:16 PM:

" What a beautiful dog! I can't imagine losing such loyal friend. I hope the coward(s) who did this get caught. I'm so sorry for you loss! "

Scott wrote on Nov 17, 2009 3:08 PM:

" I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I really hope you find the person that has done this to your beloved pet/friend/true companion. I am not sure, and do not want to make false accusations, but I would suggest you see where Flint Dahl was during this time. "

Animal Lover wrote on Nov 17, 2009 2:22 PM:

" What is the deal with people in this area mistreating animals? This story made me sick. "

South Dakotan wrote on Nov 17, 2009 2:04 PM:

" I am so sorry to hear about your friend and I too have a dog that I would not sell for amy amount. I am glad you decided to hunt and come back to SD because like you said we are not all bad apples. Good luck hunting and good luck finding the person who did this. "

nice one pierre wrote on Nov 17, 2009 1:11 PM:

" nice publicity for attracting tourists, first they steal and beat a horse in Fort Pierre then someone shoots an innocent dog. Bet it was teenagers too. "

Sorry wrote on Nov 17, 2009 1:04 PM:

" I'm so sorry for your loss Mac. Not all South Dakotans are so thoughtless.
I hope you come back to SD and continue to do what you love. I also hope you find peace, and the person who did this. "

Nan Purell wrote on Nov 17, 2009 11:43 AM:

" Have they checked Flint Dahl's whereabouts at the time the dog was shot?? "

Hughes resident wrote on Nov 17, 2009 11:42 AM:

" When I read this I cried. How awful that anyone would do this. I will keep my ears open.
Good Luck "

LC wrote on Nov 17, 2009 11:19 AM:

" That is so sad - my thoughts are with you. What a beautiful dog. I just had tears in my eyes reading your story. I have always had a love for dogs. I have one and my daughter has 3. Sorry to hear. "

Dog lover wrote on Nov 17, 2009 10:33 AM:

" This story is so sad I know how this man feels. Please if anyone has information report it. Unfortunately this happens alot maybe this story could reach people who shoot dogs and make them think twice next time. Beautiful dog! "

so sorry wrote on Nov 17, 2009 10:27 AM:

" I am so sorry to hear what happened to your dog and I hope that you will be able to figure out what happened. I am also very glad to see that you came back to SD. Not all people are like that and if you are from SD or a hunter, you know the importance of a good dog.

Good Luck! "

Happens Anywhere wrote on Nov 17, 2009 10:15 AM:

" There are killers (animal and human) in every state, I am saddened by his loss and pray the killer will be found.
Dwell on the many memories of the
hunter's best friend and enjoy all South Dakota has to offer. "

lori jacobson wrote on Nov 17, 2009 9:46 AM:

" Dear Sir,
I am so very sorry for the lose of your beloved friend.Please do not judge all South Dakotans by the actions of one heartless person.I hope you find the answers you are looking for. As a lifelong resident I will gladly use my connections to try to find out anything that may help!! This person needs to be punished.
My sincerest condolences,
Lori J "

Running at large wrote on Nov 17, 2009 9:16 AM:

" I am sorry for your tragic loss. Dogs are family and tears fell when I read your posters. In the country/county, dogs running at large can be cause to call the sheriff or shoot, it is law.
Let memories keep your heart warm, as anger doesn't, but I hope you find answers. "

concerned dog owner wrote on Nov 17, 2009 8:54 AM:

" somebody working at hog farm had to of done it. August people arent driving around in the country. The only thing going on is crop spraying in that area in august!They thought the dog was messing with the pigs and shot it! Everybody in town owns a dog of some sort. They arent going to drive around looking for a dog to shoot.Most people fishing in august and love dogs anyway. "

DisgustedWithPeople wrote on Nov 17, 2009 8:42 AM:

" I hope this man finds peace with what happened. (and hopefully that is by justice) It makes me angry that someone's thoughless act caused another so much pain. A person's bond with their dog is a special thing. Something non animal lovers can't understand. "

Melinda Gregory wrote on Nov 17, 2009 8:23 AM:

" I am so sorry for the loss of your best friend. I too have special dogs and to lose one in such a horrible way would be pretty much unbearable.
I wish you luck in finding his murderer.
Hopefully he will come forward and tell you of his guilt so that you can have closure.
God bless "

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