(ANSA) Rome, August 2 - Kaos, a German shepherd dog that
helped rescue people trapped under rubble in the 2016 Amatrice
earthquake, was killed last weekend by metaldehyde poisoning,
according to analysis by the Abruzzo-Molise animal-protection
institute.
The analysis did not say whether the dog was deliberately
poisoned or consumed the deadly substance accidentally.
This will be assessed by an investigation by the local
veterinary service and criminal investigators.
Metaldehyde is used in agriculture as a pesticide against
slugs and snails.
The news that Kaos had died of poisoning last weekend caused
widespread anger and dismay.
Health Minister Giulia Grillo said the government was working
to "make tougher the punishments" against people who poison
pets, calling them "heartless criminals".
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