Authorities investigate animal deaths in Paraguay and Ecuador

Authorities in Paraguay and Ecuador are investigating separate incidents involving the deaths of animals.

In Lambaré, Paraguay, the rescue organization Olfateando Huellas has reported the death of a dog following a suspected procedure to extract its puppies. Activists allege the animal died from blood loss and suggest the puppies may have been used in a ritual. The National Directorate for Animal Defense, Health, and Welfare has taken the body for a necropsy to determine the exact cause of death and confirm if an intervention occurred. Under Paraguayan Law No. 7513, animal cruelty resulting in death can carry prison sentences of up to six years.

In the Paltas canton of Loja, Ecuador, residents are raising alarms after three puppies died following symptoms consistent with poisoning, including vomiting, disorientation, and convulsions. This follows a similar incident in May 2026 where several dogs and scavenger birds were affected. Local citizens suspect the ingestion of contaminated food and are calling for an investigation to identify the toxic substance involved.