An Italian sniffer dog was tragically killed after consuming sausages filled with nails that had been deliberately thrown into his kennel, according to his trainer. Bruno, a seven-year-old bloodhound, had been celebrated as a hero for contributing to the rescue of nine missing persons during his career and received commendations from Italy's prime minister.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the incident, labeling the act as "vile, cowardly, unacceptable" in a heartfelt post on social media. “Thank you for all you have done, Bruno,” she expressed, highlighting the outpouring of grief felt across the nation.
Bruno's trainer, Arcangelo Caressa, was left devastated as he recounted the loss of the dog he viewed as a "brother." He discovered Bruno’s lifeless body in his kennel at the Endas search and rescue training center in Taranto, Puglia, on Friday morning. Caressa indicated that he knew the identity of those responsible and vowed to ensure they faced justice for their actions.
Sources suggest that the killing was motivated by revenge for Bruno's role in dismantling dog fighting operations. "Today I died with you,” Caressa wrote on Facebook, emphasizing the betrayal he felt as someone took the life of a dog who dedicated his existence to saving humans.
In the wake of this tragedy, Italian police and prosecutors have initiated a joint investigation. Caressa disclosed that he had received threats in recent weeks, implying that the act was targeted and premeditated. “It wasn't a random gesture. They want me to step aside," he stated in an interview with local media, expressing his determination not to back down.
Animal rights activist and Italian MP Michela Vittoria Brambilla has also rallied for justice, urging police to apprehend the culprits. She proposed that criminals targeted Bruno because of his involvement in the seizure of dogs used in fighting. Strengthened legislation she sponsored allows for increased penalties for animal cruelty, stipulating that those who kill animals using torture could face up to four years in prison and hefty fines.
Brambilla has advocated for the application of this law in Bruno's case, emphasizing the need to honor the noble sacrifice made by the dog. “We owe it to this noble animal,” she declared, echoing the sentiments of many across Italy mourning the loss of a hero.
