RSPCA attempts to trace shirtless thug who attacked defenceless dog and threw animal into river

Outraged families at a waterside beauty spot watched in disbelief when a shirtless man battered a helpless dog and threw the defenceless animal into a river.

The thug was then reported to have dragged the distressed whippet out of the water  before repeatedly shaking the animal and throwing it into the back of a dark-coloured vehicle.

The upsetting incident occurred close to the River Frome, in Farleigh Hungerford, Somerset, at around 6.45pm on Tuesday, July 16.

The RSPCA is appealing for information after a man was reported for beating his dog before throwing it into the River Frome ((Image: RSPCA))

The RSPCA said members of the public reported the incident at what is a popular outdoor swimming location during the summer months.

The man was with two children and a woman at the time of the incident, SomersetLive reported.

(Grahame Larter/Surrey Advertiser)

RSPCA inspector Miranda Albinson, who is investigating the incident, said: “We are appealing to anyone with any information about this incident to come forward and let us know as we are concerned about the safety of the dog.

“The man was seen attacking the dog and there are also concerns the dog had an injury with an open wound on the thigh.

“This was witnessed by a number of shocked onlookers who’ve reported their concerns about the incident." 

* Anybody who saw the incident, or who may know who the man is, should contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.