Police are investigating after a 13-week-old puppy was killed during a vicious attack by another dog over the weekend.
Officers from Cleveland Police are currently looking into various reports after a cocker spaniel puppy was injured in Thornaby on Sunday (September 17) afternoon.
Cleveland Police has confirmed they are investigating the incident and called for witnesses to come forward.
Read more: A1 Stannington crash: Two people remain seriously hurt in hospital
A force spokesperson said: “We are aware that sadly a puppy sustained fatal injuries following an incident in Thornaby early on Sunday afternoon.
“Enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing and we would appeal for anyone with information to contact police on 101, quoting 186537.”
The police investigation was launched after the puppy's owner took to social media to share what happened in a heartbreaking post.
The statement has been shared widely on social media.
The post reads: "My beautiful cocker spaniel Molly who was just 13 weeks old has been viciously attacked by an Alsatian and has sadly died from her injuries after the dog came at her after jumping over onto the field we were walking on near Thornaby Pool opposite St Paul’s Church.
"Despite being rushed to the vet, the dog did not make it and died from her injuries. Police are involved."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here