Shocking dog cruelty case in Spain as 14 arrested over illegal amputations
Anyone buying a dog would expect to receive an animal that has been properly cared for and legally treated. But […]
The Guardia Civil has uncovered an alleged network in Spain selling dogs that had undergone illegal cosmetic amputations to their ears and tails. The investigation, named Goscan, has led to 14 arrests and another six people being investigated for offences against animals, unlawful professional practices, and falsifying documents.
The network allegedly operated across various parts of Spain and even exported dogs to Mexico. The operation's discovery began when a veterinarian noticed amputated ears and tail of an Italian mastiff at a hospital in Cáceres. The dog's owner presented a certificate claiming that the procedures were legal in Russia, where such alterations are permitted. However, after contacting Russian authorities, investigators found the certificate to be false and created to make the operations appear legitimate.
The investigation subsequently led to the breeder's facility in Alicante. Here, the operation was found to be more extensive than initially thought. Buyers could allegedly choose the type of ear and tail cuts for aesthetic reasons. The breeder provided buyers with videos explaining how to care for the wounded animals and falsified documentation to make it appear as if the amputations were performed legally.
Moreover, a qualified veterinarian assisted the breeder by supplying blank official passports and documents with her signature and stamp. The breeder allegedly completed the paperwork herself and implanted microchips in puppies despite lacking the necessary veterinary qualification. The use of veterinary documentation aimed to make the animals subject to illegal procedures appear to have received legitimate veterinary treatment.
The investigation also revealed that some buyers did not simply acquire dogs that had already undergone cosmetic surgery. Instead, they selected the desired appearance and arranged the amputations for aesthetic reasons. So far, 14 people have been arrested, and six are under investigation. The case has been forwarded to the judicial authority in Novelda, Alicante, for trial.
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