Concerns raised over police dog’s appearance prompt official statement from Katowice authorities about the animal’s health care.
Public Concern Over Dog’s Appearance
A photo of a police dog showing visible ribs was shared on the X platform, prompting public concern. “Please comment, as we are concerned about the appearance of the dog,” the post author asked officials. Several commenters also raised similar doubts about the animal’s condition.
Police: Dog Under Veterinary Care
The Katowice Provincial Police Command addressed the issue on Monday (February 2). The dog, named Węgiel, is less than two years old and is handled by a police officer from Rybnik. “The animal is under constant veterinary supervision, receiving proper treatment, diet, and supplementation, and its current health condition does not prevent it from performing duties,” authorities stated.
The handler noticed weight issues during training, prompting veterinary examinations on September 10, 2025. Giardiasis was diagnosed and successfully treated. Police noted the dog is very active and has a predisposition to difficulty maintaining body weight.
Sosnowiec Police Dog Case
At the end of January, New Left MP Łukasz Litewka intervened at a police station in Sosnowiec, alerting that the retired police dog Nacht was being kept in a kennel without proper veterinary care. On Monday, police reported a veterinary inspection was conducted.
“The protocol shows that dogs at Sosnowiec Police Station IV are well-cared for and in good condition. Each dog is in a separate kennel insulated from the ground and lined with straw, with constant access to fresh water. Only additional protection from cold was recommended,” police stated. The district veterinary doctor raised no objections to Nacht’s treatment.