Investigation opened after dog becomes trapped in asphalt during Ruta Viva works

A dog rescued from hot asphalt during roadworks in Quito is recovering, while municipal authorities investigate how it became trapped on the Ruta Viva corridor.

The incident emerged through reports from the Amigos de Lucas Foundation, an animal care and welfare group that carried out the rescue. The foundation said the dog suffered burns and other injuries after direct contact with the asphalt material. It named the animal Brea and said the dog had passed the most critical hours of medical treatment and was out of danger.

The Metropolitan Public Mobility and Public Works Company, known as Epmmop, contacted the foundation through its Environment and Social Responsibility Directorate to gather information from the site. The company said it would apply administrative measures and sanctions if negligence is verified. It also said safety protocols remain in place for pedestrians, workers, drivers and urban animals at work sites scheduled through December.

Quito's Animal Welfare Unit coordinated an inspection around the road to collect physical evidence and determine whether the incident occurred in the reported construction zone. A further visit to the refuge was scheduled for Thursday or Friday so inspectors could assess Brea's clinical condition and add the veterinary report to the administrative case.

The foundation said the emergency generated high medical costs, which the refuge initially covered because no responsible party had yet been identified. Brea remains under veterinary observation and continued care.