The Guardia Civil in Spain’s Region of Murcia has investigated two residents of Torre Pacheco as suspected perpetrators of an animal cruelty offence after a dog was found badly injured in a rubbish container near its owner’s home.

The investigation began when the owner reported finding his small mixed-breed dog inside the bin. The animal was injured and was taken to a veterinary centre, where it was admitted in a serious condition with a suspected cervical fracture. Officers from the Guardia Civil’s nature protection unit, SEPRONA, gathered evidence from the scene.

Investigators believe the dog had entered a nearby house shortly before the incident. A short time later, an individual allegedly left the property carrying a paper bag containing the injured animal and threw it into the container.

The Guardia Civil has reiterated its ongoing campaign against the abuse and abandonment of domestic animals, encouraging the public to report any suspected cases. The force has stressed that animal ownership carries serious responsibility and that mistreatment is punishable under Spain’s Criminal Code.