Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has found himself at the centre of a political and public relations storm, but this time it's over his treatment of a family pet rather than his hardline policies.
The leader of the right-wing League party triggered a significant police response at Frankfurt Airport in Germany after he left his black Labrador unattended inside his vehicle for over an hour.
Airport Alert Sparks Outrage
The incident unfolded when concerned passengers noticed the distressed animal locked inside Salvini's car in the airport's multi-storey car park. With temperatures becoming a concern for the animal's welfare, airport security was promptly alerted.
German police officers were dispatched to the scene and remained with the vehicle until the Italian politician returned approximately an hour later. The situation caused considerable embarrassment for the high-profile minister, known for his tough stance on immigration and law-and-order issues.
Salvini's Questionable Defence
When confronted about the incident, Mr Salvini offered a curious explanation. He claimed he had left the windows partially open and had set up a fan inside the vehicle to keep the dog comfortable.
"The dog is better off than many Italians," the deputy PM reportedly told officers, a statement that has since drawn sharp criticism from animal rights groups and political opponents alike.
This isn't the first time Salvini's relationship with animals has made headlines. The politician is known for frequently sharing photos of himself with various pets on his social media channels, cultivating an image of an animal lover.
Political Fallout and Public Reaction
The incident has sparked fierce criticism from animal welfare organisations across Europe. Many have condemned the politician's actions as irresponsible and potentially dangerous for the animal's wellbeing.
Political analysts suggest the episode could damage Salvini's carefully crafted public persona, particularly among voters who view proper animal treatment as an important character issue.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Italian politics, with the government facing numerous challenges on both domestic and international fronts.
