Dead and emaciated dog found in Ellmau – 38-year-old owner missing

The woman promptly notified the emergency services after the discovery. „Die Frau alarmierte daraufhin die Polizei, die die weiteren Ermittlungen übernahm", the authority stated. According to police, there were initially no indications of an accident or any other third-party involvement at the discovery site itself.

Investigation leads to a 38-year-old German

In the course of the inquiries, a 38-year-old German was identified as the owner of the dog. According to the investigators, the man was registered as staff at a company in the region and had lived in company-provided accommodation there.

However, police were no longer able to find the man at his previous staff accommodation. Neighbors and colleagues had not seen the 38-year-old for some time, according to police. „Der aktuelle Aufenthaltsort des 38-Jährigen ist derzeit nicht bekannt", police stated.

Indications of a permanent disappearance

According to the investigators, much suggests that he has left it for good: he is said to have left behind his room key as well as his work clothing. These circumstances suggest that the man left the region without giving prior notice. Exactly when he disappeared remains unclear.

Police are now examining whether the dog owner can be held responsible for the condition and death of the animal. There is a suspicion of severe neglect, or rather of failure to provide the necessary care and sustenance. Which specific criminal offenses might apply would depend on the outcome of further investigation, it was said.

Police seek witnesses and clarify the circumstances

Officers secured evidence at the scene and interviewed potential witnesses. The local animal shelter and local veterinarians were also brought into the investigation to obtain information about the dog's history. The autopsy of the carcass is intended to show what the animal died of and how long it may have already suffered.

Police are conducting further investigations to clarify the circumstances. In this context, they are also asking the public for information: Who has made observations regarding the dog or its owner in the Au area of Ellmau in recent weeks? Relevant information is being requested at the Ellmau police station.

The case throws a spotlight on the responsibility of owners toward their animals and is now occupying the authorities in the Kufstein district. Only the result of further investigations will show what criminal consequences the 38-year-old faces – provided he can be located.

In Austria, violations of the Animal Protection Act can be punished with hefty fines, and in particularly serious cases also with prison sentences. Austrian animal protection law obligates owners, among other things, to ensure species-appropriate nutrition, regular veterinary care, and accommodation that spares the animal physical and psychological harm.