A 78-year-old man has been investigated by the Guardia Civil for alleged animal cruelty after his dog was found seriously injured in Torrevieja.

The investigation began on 13 April after workers at a municipal animal shelter reported that a dog had been found wandering in a poor condition. The animal had visible injuries and was taken to a veterinary clinic for urgent treatment.

Veterinary staff discovered the dog was wearing a spiked punishment collar. When it was removed, they found it had caused deep wounds to the neck and had become embedded in the skin due to prolonged use. Such devices are banned under current animal welfare regulations.

Officers from the Guardia Civil’s Nature Protection Service, SEPRONA, in Guardamar del Segura identified the owner and launched proceedings for an alleged animal cruelty offence. The case has been referred to the Investigating Court in Torrevieja. The Guardia Civil has reminded the public of the importance of proper pet care and reporting suspected mistreatment.