Katana Police have launched an investigation into the death of a dog following an alleged assault at a dog care centre within the Katana police division.
The three-year-old dog, named Tango, belonged to a resident of Nalagama Road, Tangalle, and had been admitted to the centre on 26 August.
According to the owner, Tango had spent more than a month at the facility when an employee allegedly struck him with a shovel on the 8th, during a fight with another dog.
The centre’s owners had taken the injured animal for treatment, but he died on the 18th.
The owner said Tango had also undergone a neutering operation while receiving treatment for his injuries. The centre subsequently informed him that the dog’s kidneys had failed.
However, the owner maintained that Tango had been in good health when admitted to the facility. He also said CCTV footage from the premises showed the dog being struck with a shovel.
Meanwhile, animal welfare organisations have accused the centre, which has provided paid dog care services for an extended period, of failing to fulfil its responsibilities.
Tango’s owners had paid Rs. 64,000 to the facility for his care.
Social activists have begun collecting signatures for a petition seeking justice for Tango. They have urged the relevant authorities to take appropriate action against facilities that operate irresponsibly.
