Animal cruelty trial

“Mistress” in court because dog was spindly

The terrier dog (symbolic image) was too skinny,(Bild: Stieber Szabolcs)

Pet owners don't necessarily expect this: a Tyrolean woman (25) was apparently unable to cope with caring for her sick four-legged friend, and a trial for cruelty to animals followed. 

The investigation was initiated by a boarding kennel: The dog - an actually handsome American Staffordshire Terrier - was severely emaciated in September. "Instead of the appropriate 25 kg, 'Mona' only weighed around 16", said a witness.

Vet visits show responsibility
Judge Andreas Mair ruled that the defendant had not been "completely indifferent" to the four-legged friend: "They had been to the vet at least six times in the accused period from January to October 2023." During the trial, a veterinarian confirmed that the breed was particularly sensitive when it came to nutrition and diarrhea.

The defendant at the trial was ultimately able to breathe a sigh of relief - acquittal.(Bild: Markus Stegmayr)

Illness was added
"The animal also had an underactive pancreas," said the vet who interrogated her. This simply meant that the food could not be adequately digested. "You therefore have to mix enzymes into the feed," said the vet. To his knowledge, the defendant had done this. Too small quantities? Too little on a regular basis? This could not be clarified.

Mona is now in East Tyrol. I don't know how she's doing at the moment.

Die Angeklagte

The 25-year-old was ultimately acquitted. She now considers her dog purchase a mistake. Incidentally, "Mona" survived and is somewhere in East Tyrol. "I don't know if she's okay", the defendant mumbled.