Shock video surfaces of Norwich girl swinging dog by collar

The video, reportedly shared on the social media platform Snapchat, shows the girl spinning the dog in circles by its neck before it flies around 20ft through the air and lands with a thud.

It is currently unknown if the dog was injured during the incident, which police have confirmed happened in Harford Park in Tuckswood.

The video has since been spread widely on local Facebook groups where people have expressed their shock and anger over the act of cruelty. 

Comments include the offender being described as a "vile piece of work" and describing the behaviour as "absolutely rank".

Hayley Pattrick, from Lakenham-based Norfolk Greyhound Rescue, is also furious.

She said: "What is displayed in the video is just cruelty, boredom and unnecessary entertainment for that young girl at the expense of this poor little dog.

Hayley Pattrick found the video deplorable and condemned the girl's actions (Image: Newsquest)

"It's sad that someone stood there to watch and video such evil behaviour.  

"I can say watching it made my blood boil and I wish with all my heart they catch this person and the RSPCA remove the dogs immediately."

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A police spokeswoman confirmed the incident was reported on Tuesday evening and an investigation has been launched.

The dog is spun around at least two times before flying off the leash and hitting the ground hard several metres away (Image: Facebook)

National animal welfare charity Dogs Trust is "deeply concerned" by the footage.

A spokeswoman said: “Not only could these actions cause significant physical injuries to the dog, as a sentient creature, this would cause serious distress to the dog involved.

"Such incidents could additionally have lasting implications surrounding a dog’s future behaviour and welfare.

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"If you witness any type of animal cruelty, you should report it to the RSPCA and the police who will take steps to investigate.”

The incident took place at Harford Park in Tuckswood (Image: Google Maps)

What the law says

In the UK, animals are protected from abuse, pain, suffering and injury under the Animal Welfare Act of 2006. 

Before June of last year, the maximum sentence for extreme animal cruelty was six months, but a new sentencing structure gave judges the power to sentence abusers to up to five years for serious offences. 

As well as a prison sentence, offenders can also receive an unlimited fine.