Two people are under investigation after a seriously ill dog died in Santa Lucía de Tirajana, Gran Canaria, in a case being investigated by the Guardia Civil's Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA).

The investigation began after SEPRONA officers carried out an inspection at a veterinary clinic, where they found the dog in an extremely poor condition. The animal was suffering from multiple serious health problems that required urgent veterinary care.

Vets reported that the dog showed signs of long-term illness, including suspected kidney disease, severe anaemia and liver failure. It was also extremely lethargic, unable to eat on its own and required continuous intravenous medication.

Officers seized the dog as a precaution and arranged for it to be transferred to a specialist veterinary hospital, where it remained under treatment.

Ibuprofen may have worsened the dog's condition

During the investigation, officers examined the treatment the dog had received before being admitted to the clinic.

One of the people responsible for caring for the animal voluntarily admitted giving it ibuprofen, a painkiller intended for human use, in an attempt to treat facial swelling believed to have been caused by another animal.

A veterinary report later concluded that the ibuprofen may have contributed to the deterioration of the dog's already critical condition.

Investigators also found evidence suggesting the animal may not have received the ongoing care it needed. Veterinary specialists said its illnesses appeared consistent with a prolonged lack of appropriate treatment, which may have allowed its condition to worsen over time.

A second person connected with the dog's care is also being investigated over the suspected neglect.

Despite the efforts of veterinary staff, the dog later died from cardiac arrest while still receiving treatment.

The case has been referred to the court in San Bartolomé de Tirajana and to the Environmental Prosecutor's Office in Las Palmas for further judicial proceedings.

The Guardia Civil has reminded pet owners that human medicines should never be given to animals without veterinary advice, as they can cause serious or even fatal complications, particularly in pets with existing health conditions. The force also stressed the importance of seeking prompt veterinary care whenever an animal shows signs of illness.