A family in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, says their 11-year-old Shih Tzu died after being allegedly kicked by a postal worker during a parcel delivery. The incident, which is under investigation by police and Royal Mail, has drawn attention after the dog’s owner said doorbell camera footage captured what happened.
Authorities have confirmed that inquiries are ongoing, and no arrests have been made.
Incident
According to the dog’s owner, Eve Lewis, the incident occurred at around 11 a.m. on Saturday outside her home in Aylesbury.
Lewis said her dog, Ethel, approached the delivery worker as a parcel was being delivered. She alleges the postal worker kicked the dog with significant force before leaving the property.
Ring doorbell footage, reported by several media outlets, is said to show the interaction. The footage has not been publicly authenticated by investigators.
Lewis also claimed the delivery worker denied kicking the dog when questioned.
Injuries
Following the incident, Ethel was taken to a veterinarian for emergency treatment.
According to Lewis, veterinarians determined that the dog had suffered severe internal injuries consistent with blunt force trauma. She said Ethel experienced organ failure, and veterinary staff advised that the injuries were unlikely to be survivable.
The family made the decision to have the dog euthanized the following day.
Lewis described Ethel as partially blind and said the dog had been a much-loved member of the family for 11 years.
Investigation
Thames Valley Police confirmed officers were called to an address on Marston Gate on Saturday morning following reports involving criminal damage and animal welfare concerns.
Police stated that the dog later died from its injuries.
Investigators also confirmed they are examining another incident reported nearby later the same day, which they believe may be connected to the ongoing investigation.
At this stage, no arrests have been announced.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire |
| Dog | Ethel, 11-year-old Shih Tzu |
| Reported incident | Alleged kick during parcel delivery |
| Investigation | Thames Valley Police |
| Arrests | None reported |
Royal Mail
Royal Mail said it is treating the matter seriously.
In a statement, the company said it had reviewed the available footage and launched a full investigation to establish what happened.
Royal Mail also confirmed that the delivery worker has been suspended while the investigation continues.
The company said it had informed the family that it would cover the veterinary costs related to the incident.
Animal Welfare
Under UK law, intentionally causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal is a criminal offense and can result in significant penalties if a person is convicted.
Authorities have not announced any charges in this case, and the investigation remains ongoing.
As with all investigations, the facts will ultimately be determined through the legal process.
Response
Lewis said the loss of Ethel has had a profound impact on her family and hopes the investigation helps establish what occurred.
Meanwhile, police and Royal Mail continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The case has prompted renewed discussion about animal welfare, interactions between delivery workers and pets, and the importance of allowing investigations to proceed before conclusions are reached.
FAQs
Where did the incident happen?
In Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.
What breed was Ethel?
She was an 11-year-old Shih Tzu.
Is the incident being investigated?
Yes, police and Royal Mail are investigating.
Has anyone been arrested?
No arrests have been reported.
What did Royal Mail say?
It launched an investigation and suspended the worker.
