Police officers from the Wejherowo County Headquarters, in cooperation with the organization OTOZ Animals, secured three dogs found in the Wejherowo county area. The animals were kept in conditions that posed a threat to their health and lives. The owner of the quadrupeds is a 49-year-old man who may be charged with animal cruelty. Such an offense is punishable by imprisonment of up to three years.
The intervention took place at one of the properties in Wejherowo County. Officers from the Economic Crime Unit determined that the dogs were kept outdoors, tied to chains ranging in length from approximately 30 centimeters to a maximum of 1.5 meters. Such short tethering significantly limited the animals' ability to move freely. The dogs had no access to a dry hiding place or the possibility of sheltering from adverse weather conditions.
The condition of the animals raised serious concerns about their health. The quadrupeds were neglected, dirty, and their fur was covered in mud and rain-soaked. The owner did not provide them with a sufficient amount of food or access to water, resulting in malnutrition. The kennels in which the dogs were supposed to be kept were makeshift in nature. They were damaged, full of holes, and uninsulated, which prevented effective protection against cold and humidity.
During a conversation at the scene, the 49-year-old owner of the animals claimed that the prevailing conditions were appropriate for the dogs. The police did not share this assessment and, with the participation of OTOZ Animals representatives, secured the animals to ensure their safety as well as proper veterinary and housing care.
The investigation into this matter is ongoing. Officers are gathering evidentiary material and clarifying all circumstances of the incident. The owner may be formally charged with animal cruelty, and the case will be decided in court. We remind that every owner has an obligation to ensure proper living conditions for animals, access to food and water, and protection from atmospheric factors. Suspicions regarding the harming of quadrupeds should be reported to law enforcement authorities.