Italy is reeling after the shocking and deliberate poisoning of a heroic police bloodhound named Bruno, who helped save and recover nine lives during his celebrated career. The 7-year-old K9 was found dead last Friday in a shed in Taranto, southern Italy, after consuming dog food laced with sharp nails… a heinous act that has triggered a criminal investigation and national fury.
Bruno’s handler, Arcangelo Caressa, who trained and worked with the dog throughout his service, believes the killing was intentional and personal. “This wasn’t random. This was a message,” Caressa said, referencing previous threats he received over his involvement in shutting down illegal dogfighting operations. “They didn’t just kill Bruno. They were targeting me.”
In a passionate social media plea, Caressa demanded justice: “Find them before I do.”
The story has shaken the country, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni calling the act “vile, cowardly, and inexcusable,” sharing a tribute photo with Bruno from one of his life-saving missions. Lawmaker and animal rights advocate Michela Vittoria Brambilla, the architect of Italy’s newly enacted animal cruelty law, has filed an official complaint urging prosecutors to act swiftly under the tougher regulations.
Under the new Brambilla Law, which took effect on July 1, those convicted of animal cruelty could face up to four years in prison and fines up to €60,000… penalties that increase if the cruelty is recorded or occurs in front of minors.
Bruno wasn’t just any police dog. Over the years, he successfully located five missing persons alive and helped families recover the remains of four more. “He was more than a dog,” Caressa said in a heartfelt Facebook post. “He was my shadow, my strength, my heartbeat in the darkest times.”
Veteran journalist Vittorio Feltri also spoke out, writing: “Bruno did more for public good than many humans ever will. His death is a national disgrace.”
The investigation is ongoing, and Caressa has provided authorities with names of individuals he believes may be responsible. He’s vowed not to stop his mission despite the danger. “They want me to give up, but I won’t. Bruno deserves justice.”
As Italians mourn, tributes pour in from across the country… from law enforcement to animal lovers… remembering Bruno not just as a skilled rescue dog, but a symbol of loyalty, courage, and compassion.
