The ongoing investigation into the blood and saliva samples from the five dogs linked to the La Hiniesta incident progresses. Authorities aim to establish whether the shepherd’s five adult dogs, identified by initials PGR, participated in the brutal attack near a rural road on October 23. The inquiry will also determine if the animals acted as a coordinated group, with one dog taking a leading role during the assault. This interpretation has shaped discussions since the case opened.
The fourth Criminal Court of First Instance notified La Hiniesta’s town council that custody of the seized animals remains with municipal authorities. The animals should be kept in a quarantine area for 14 days, after which the judge will decide whether euthanasia is warranted. Local officials noted that the council lacks an appropriate quarantine facility and has requested transfer to a private center under a standing agreement. The receiving facility is in Simancas, Valladolid. A relocation date has not yet been set. (Citation: local court documentation)
Clinical examination results for the dogs are pending and will be compared with the autopsy findings conducted at the Zamora Institute of Forensic Medicine on October 24. The autopsy session ran four hours, from four to nine in the evening. Forensic specialists will document detailed aspects of the injuries, including bite size and pattern, to determine which wounds were fatal and how the injuries reflect attempted immobilization or a direct dog attack. Understanding whether the group targeted a single person or acted as a coordinated unit will be part of the analysis, and researchers will examine how escape attempts influenced subsequent attacks on exposed limbs and vital areas. (Citation: Zamora Institute of Forensic Medicine)
The whereabouts of a missing dog have been traced
Further assessment suggests the two youngest cubs may have escaped through a grazing fence where the flock rests beside the five-dog group. One six‑month‑old dog remains uncaptured in the original area, possibly now in the mobile pen with the herd. Reports indicate the shepherd could soon hand over the dog to the Seprona Civil Guard, though the individual has declined to testify at the Zamora Command on October 24. New information hints that the animals may have sought shelter near the herd, and one source notes the dog may have allowed itself to be caught only by the shepherd before transfer. (Citation: field reports)
Dog victims are under judicial review
A judge will decide whether the five dogs responsible for the fatal encounter with the La Hiniesta resident should be euthanized or kept alive for further evaluation. Regional representatives stressed that this decision is not in the hands of the Junta of Castilla y León. Veterinary professionals will assess whether the aggression can be redirected in a safe way. Experts note that when incidents are severe, euthanasia remains a possible outcome for dogs involved in fatal attacks. Questions to resolve include whether the animals were strays or had escaped confinement, and whether one or more were tethered when the incident occurred. In one account, a chain or tether appeared broken, suggesting the animal may have been restrained before the event. (Citation: regional veterinary briefing)
Board and veterinary services support the Civil Guard
Animal Health and Production and Veterinary services from Castilla y León stated they assisted the Civil Guard upon request, helping the Seprona unit with matters related to the five seized dogs. Officials explained that the board’s role included verification and oversight during quarantine, ensuring the animals do not develop symptoms such as heightened aggression or bites. Health records were reviewed to confirm rabies vaccination and deworming status. If any dog is identified as a threat, official supervision during the 14-day quarantine applies to monitor behavior and health. The board’s powers center on inspection and sanctioning rather than custody. The dogs currently remain in a sealed Seprona facility in La Hiniesta, awaiting the judge’s determination. (Citation: regional veterinary authority)