Footage from a quiet residential area in Germany shows a man standing with a calm dog beside him, holding what appears to be a wooden fence slat.
It was no ordinary object. According to witnesses, the man intended to beat the dog to death with it shortly after midnight.
Police intervene just in time
The dog’s life was saved by police officers who arrived at the scene just in time to stop such a horrendous act of cruelty.
Facebook user Michael S., who posted about the incident, explained: “The owner claimed the dog was aggressive.” But many users have questioned this excuse, believing it to be a cover for cruelty.
Michael S. warned: “This is no longer rare. These incidents are becoming more common, and we’re tired of the authorities doing nothing.”
Following police intervention, the man reportedly changed his plan and attempted to give the dog up to a shelter. However, many shelters are already overwhelmed with growing numbers of abandoned pets.
Dog remains with owner, for now
The public has been particularly angered by the fact that the dog was not immediately taken from the man. Authorities issued a caution and provided him with contacts for support services, and the situation will be monitored.
Still, many are asking: how can the dog remain with someone who intended to end its life?