The poison was hidden in pieces of sausage scattered around the northern Polish village of Gościcino. Two of the dogs died, while vets managed to save three others.

Village mayor Marek Miotk issued a dramatic appeal on social media, urging residents to be vigilant.

He said: “WARNING!!! It has been confirmed that someone poisoning dogs is running loose in our village. Please keep your pets secured and do not let them roam freely. Each owner is legally responsible for their animals.”

The post sparked a discussion among villagers, some of whom said stray dogs were a problem in the area, while others condemned the cruelty of the poisoners.

Miotk told Polish news website Wirtualna Polska: “I've heard from residents that the animals die in agonizing pain over several days. One woman spent over 5,000 zlotys (€1,200) to treat her dog, which was under a vet's care for over a week.”

He also cited another case where a poisoned dog had to undergo surgery. "The vet immediately knew the dog had been poisoned after examining its liver,” Miotk said.