Escaped Wolf-Dog Shot After Killing Sheep, Causing Traffic concerns
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Venlo, Netherlands – August 23, 2025 - A wolf-dog escaped from a private shelter in Venlo this morning and was ultimately shot by police after killing three sheep and posing a potential hazard to traffic on the A73 highway. The incident sparked widespread alarm, with initial reports mistakenly identifying the animal as a wild wolf.
The escape occurred at a private shelter, the location of wich was not immediatly disclosed. Police initiated a search after receiving reports of the animal’s escape. The dog was later found at a farm in Tegelen, where it had fatally attacked three sheep. Owner Marjan ambaum stated, “The animal was still walking around with us, but the police hunted him of our country. We had three hobbies. They are now dead.”
Confusion and Misidentification
The situation was complicated by numerous reports from the public claiming to have seen a wolf, leading to speculation about two escaped wolves. Experts quickly refuted these claims, confirming the animal was a wolf-dog, not a wild wolf. The police also confirmed it was not a wild wolf.
Incident Timeline and Police Response
Images circulating on social media showed the animal traversing the track at the Athletics Association Scopias before entering a meadow near the farm where the sheep were killed. Police attempted to contain and capture the dog between Tegelen and Belfeld, but these efforts proved unsuccessful.
According to a statement released by the Police, the decision to shoot the animal was made when it began running towards the A73 highway. ”An attempt was made to enclose and catch the animal, but that did not work,” the police statement read. “Because the Wolfhound wanted to run in the area of Belfeld towards the A73, it was decided to shoot the beast. This to prevent an unsafe situation for road users.”
The incident highlights the potential dangers posed by large, escaped animals and the difficult decisions law enforcement must make to ensure public safety. Further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the dog’s escape from the private shelter is expected.