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The Guardia Civil is investigating the heartbreaking deaths of 27 hunting dogs found inside a van on a ferry that docked in Palma port this past Saturday morning. The van was transporting a group of 36 dogs belonging to Mallorcan hunters returning from Lithuania, where they had been specially training their dogs for the woodcock hunting season.

 

Of the 36 dogs loaded onto the ferry from Barcelona, only nine survived the journey, Guardia Civil sources have confirmed. The hunters, twelve in total, were deeply distressed by the tragic loss of their animals.

Initially, the dogs were to undergo necropsies to determine the cause of death, but these were deemed unnecessary after it became clear that the animals had suffocated. It appears that the van’s adapted ventilation system, designed for transporting animals and equipped with backup batteries in case of failure, did not activate properly. This failure likely led to the dogs' asphyxiation during the ferry crossing.

 

The van was transported in a specific area of the ship’s hold, and the hunters had contracted a Catalan company certified to provide this type of specialised animal transportation. Upon discovering the situation at Palma port, the hunters informed the ferry company, which then alerted the Guardia Civil. The Nature Protection Service (Seprona) is leading the ongoing investigation to establish the full circumstances behind this tragic event.

 

Woodcock hunting holds particular significance in Mallorca, with the bird highly prized for its autumn and winter visits to the Balearic Islands, according to the Council of Mallorca. With specialised training trips like those to Lithuania, hunters prepare their dogs specifically for this season.

 

This incident has raised concerns over the safety protocols of transporting animals by ferry, and the investigation aims to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies of this kind. Meanwhile, arrangements have been made for the cremation of the deceased dogs.

 

This devastating loss mourns 27 dogs who were part of a tradition entwined with Mallorca’s hunting heritage, now under close scrutiny as official bodies seek answers.

 

 

Image: Guardia Civil