The Civil Guard has launched an investigation against a 45-year-old man, resident in Alquerías del Niño Perdido, in the province of Castellón, for the death of his dog. The animal was left for months on the terrace of his home without access to food or water, which caused its death. The complaint was filed by the Local Police of Burriana, alerted by a strong smell emanating from a house in the municipality. The intervention was managed by agents of the Nature Protection Service (Seprona), who went to the scene to carry out a direct inspection.
During the visit, it was found that the dog was in a critical situation. It was surrounded by a large amount of accumulated feces, which evidenced a prolonged lack of hygiene and attention. It was not provided with the essential care for its survival. The body was taken to the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences of Valencia for forensic analysis. The conclusions of the investigators indicate that the death was due to prolonged abandonment and the absence of basic assistance necessary to maintain the animal’s life.
The Seprona has sent all the documents to the single first instance and instruction section of the Nules district court, pointing out the possibility of criminal liability against the alleged responsible person. The investigation is based on facts observed directly by the agents during the inspection and on the results of the forensic analysis. The Civil Guard reminds that abandoning an animal or failing to provide veterinary assistance in the event of signs of illness or pain can constitute a crime, even when the animal remains under the care of its owner.
Owners are legally responsible for the well-being of their pets, and must ensure medical assistance and avoid any avoidable suffering. If similar situations are detected, it is recommended to immediately report them to Seprona (062) or the Local Police, providing as much information as possible. This case reinforces the importance of citizen surveillance and compliance with legal obligations in the treatment of animals. Prolonged neglect is not only morally questionable, but it can also have serious legal consequences.