What happened
More than 40 dogs, mostly Alaskan Malamutes, were rescued from a property in Dundaga, Latvia, due to cruel conditions. The dogs were being kept in small, outdoor cages without proper care, and some were severely emaciated. The property owner had been keeping the dogs in these conditions, despite being known to the Food and Veterinary Service (PVD) from a previous inspection four years ago.
The PVD initiated administrative proceedings for cruelty to animals after residents reported the situation on social media. The owner had been breeding the dogs in unsuitable kennels, with no space and no shelter from adverse weather conditions. The PVD is currently working to identify animal shelters in Latvia that can take in the rescued dogs.
The Animal Protection Law in Latvia stipulates fines for cruel treatment of animals, ranging from 100 to 2,000 euros for individuals and 200 to 3,500 euros for legal entities, with a possible ban on keeping animals for up to two years. The PVD reported 703 cases of possible breaches of animal welfare requirements in the first half of the year, leading to 84 proceedings and the seizure of 49 dogs and 33 cats.
