Discover the Abel-Matutes: Ratings & Maritime News

In a heartbreaking event, the Balearic Hunting Federation reported the unfortunate demise of 27 hunting dogs during a ferry journey from Barcelona to Palma aboard the 'Abel Matutes'. This tragic incident occurred on November 1, 2025, when the ferry arrived at Palma's port. Out of the 36 dogs transported in a van within the ship's hold, only nine were discovered alive, albeit in a semi-conscious state, while the others were found lifeless. The Spanish Civil Guard has taken charge of the investigation, assigning SEPRONA, the Nature Protection Service, to determine the circumstances leading to this catastrophe. Initial findings suggest that the specialized ventilation system designed to ensure the safety of transported animals may have failed, leading to asphyxiation. The dogs were owned by a group from Mallorca who had just returned from Lithuania, where they participated in training sessions for the woodcock hunting season. While the journey from Lithuania to Barcelona was uneventful, the final leg to Mallorca turned tragic. The investigation is concentrating on the transport conditions of the van, including ventilation and temperature control. SEPRONA is working to uncover any chain of responsibility involved in the dogs' transport and well-being. Upon reaching Palma, the dog's owners quickly notified authorities, initiating the emergency protocol at the port. Current investigations are ongoing as officials await results from necropsies to assess potential deficiencies in care and whether there are grounds for criminal or administrative actions. Updates on this distressing case can be found in reports with accompanying visuals: [Diario de Mallorca](https://www.diariodemallorca.es/mallorca/2025/11/01/hallan-muertos-27-perros-caza-123262480.html) and [Última Hora](https://www.ultimahora.es/sucesos/ultimas/2025/11/02/2503739/estamos-destrozados-propietarios-lloran-perdida-perros-hallados-muertos-palma.html).