A family is grieving after their Australian Shepherd was killed by a group of eight unleashed and unmuzzled German Shepherds during a walk on Vitosha Mountain. The brutal attack has sparked public outrage and renewed concern over the enforcement of pet ownership laws.
The incident occurred on a hiking trail near the Aleko hut, where Kalin, the dog’s owner, was walking with his wife and their two dogs.
“We stopped to rest on the trail when several dogs suddenly rushed at us aggressively,” Kalin told Hello, Bulgaria. “Our dogs tried to run away. I shouted and tried to stop the other animals, but it was impossible. I saw someone—presumably the owner—hide in the forest.”
Kalin said they later found their dog’s body in a river, showing signs of being bitten and drowned. Disturbing photos of the victim circulated on social media, drawing both sympathy and anger from the public.
Online users have begun pointing to a specific individual they believe may own the dogs or operate a kennel in the area. However, the identity of the person and their connection to the dogs has not been officially confirmed.
“This is a clear violation of the law,” said Samuil Popov, mayor of Bistritsa municipality. “In Sofia Municipality, dogs must be kept on a leash, and if they are aggressive, they must also wear a muzzle. I urge all pet owners to register their animals and take full responsibility for them.”
Authorities have not announced whether any legal action has been taken yet. The incident has reignited debate over the lack of enforcement of pet safety regulations and the risks posed to people and animals when owners act irresponsibly.
Related topics：
- Eight Veteran-Service Dog Teams Graduate After Two Years of Training
- Dog Helps Michigan State Police Track Home Invasion Suspect Over Five Miles
- America’s Four-Legged Heroes Honored in 15th Annual “Oscars for Dogs”
