“Distressing” video has emerged of a dog owner allegedly blowing a substance into his pet’s mouth.
The horrifying clip shows a homeless man kneeling on the ground with his small pooch standing on its hind legs as the pair meet face-to-face.
The man then takes a drag on a device and puts it back in his pocket, before gripping his dog by the jaw.
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He then brings the pooch closer and appears to blow something into its mouth.
The incident is said to have happened along Lawrence Road near Highway 82 in Wichita Falls, Texas at around 3pm yesterday (10 Nov).
On social media, locals have reported seeing the dog and its owner on a number of occasions on the same road.
In an update on Tuesday, the Wichita Falls Police Department said it had located the pair, and that they were taking “appropriate action”.
Images showed officers from animal control and WFPD approaching them near the highway, as reported by Need To Know.
It came after another statement, in which the force said: “We are aware of the video circulating on the internet that appears to depict an individual blowing a substance into a dog’s mouth.
“We understand this video is distressing, and want to let our community know that we are actively investigating this incident.
“Currently, we are working with Animal Control Services to locate this individual and the dog depicted in the video.
“Once we locate them, we will be able to assess their condition and provide any resources that both of them may need.
“If it’s found that any criminal violations have occurred, we will take appropriate law enforcement action.
“We want to say that we appreciate our community’s concern in this matter. Our community members always come together to support each other, as well as our four-legged friends.”
Horrified dog lovers took to social media to assist police in tracking them down and share previous sightings. Some even offered to give the pooch a new home.
LaDana Stimpson said: “Someone also said they have seen this individual riding his bike in the middle of summer, dragging his dog along.
“The pavement is too hot for animals in those months. I hope this dog finds someone capable and willing to take care of it the way an animal should be.
“I’m not saying this guy does not love his dog, but sometimes love and making responsible decisions do not go hand in hand for some.”
Karmen Keep Chapmond added: “I hope the dog is in your custody now. I still stand behind my offer to give him a safe place to land and be loved. My messenger is open.”
Rhian Siaweleski wrote: “Super confused on what you mean by ‘if it’s found that any criminal violations have occurred.’ I mean what more do you need than the video?”
It’s currently unknown whether the owner was arrested or charged in connection with an offence.
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