A woman in Alicante has been arrested after throwing her two pet dogs from the eighth floor of her apartment, allegedly because she was ‘fed up’ with taking them out for walks.
The 53-year-old reportedly admitted to Spanish police that she lost her temper during an argument with her husband, frustrated that the responsibility of walking their two Yorkshire Terriers ‘always fell on her’.
The incident occurred on Sunday at around 1pm, when neighbours first spotted what they initially believed to be a stuffed toy falling to the ground. Moments later, a dog bed, a collar, and a leash were also thrown from the window, followed by the second dog.
Both animals died instantly from the 75-foot fall.
The shocking event took place in Alicante’s Albufereta neighbourhood. Officers responding to the scene identified the owner through the dogs’ microchips and with assistance from witnesses.
The woman’s partner, who has no prior criminal record, is said to have confirmed her account of what happened.
The dogs’ remains were taken to a local animal protection centre.
It remains unclear whether the suspect has yet appeared in court, though it is expected that a judge would grant her bail rather than ordering her to remain in custody while the investigation continues.
In Spain, animal mistreatment carries a potential prison sentence of up to two years. People convicted of the crime can also be banned from owning animals for up to four years.
Detenida una mujer en Alicante por arrojar desde una octava planta a sus dos perros porque estaba «harta» de que «siempre» le tocara a ella sacarlos a la calle.https://t.co/r5sB3NbONq pic.twitter.com/b11tDL8EFU
— EFE Noticias (@EFEnoticias) March 24, 2025
Arroja a sus dos perros desde un octavo piso en Alicante porque está “harta” de sacarlos https://t.co/1EOV79W1sm
— laSexta Noticias (@sextaNoticias) March 24, 2025
Subscribe to the Weekly Newsletter from Spain in English.
Please support Spain in English with a donation.
Click here to get your business activity or services listed on our DIRECTORY.
Click here for further details on how to ADVERTISE with us.