The RSPCA has launched an appeal after a dog was repeatedly punched outside a supermarket in south London.
The incident happened outside Sainsbury’s in Tulse Hill at around 9.30am on Friday, September 4. Footage obtained by the animal welfare charity showed a tan and white bull breed dog being followed into the entrance of the supermarket by a man.
The footage then showed the man grabbing hold of the dog and punching it in the head around four times, according to the RSPCA. He was also accompanied by another tan-coloured bull breed dog.
RSPCA Inspector Natalie Avery said: “This was a very upsetting incident to witness and we are keen to establish what happened.”
As part of its investigation, the charity has released an image of a man who was in the area at the time. The RSPCA said it wants to speak to him as it believes he may have “vital information” relevant to the incident. He is not accused of anything — the charity is appealing for him to come forward because he may be able to help its enquiries.
Inspector Avery added: “We are very concerned about the welfare of the dog involved and would urge anyone who may have been in the area at the time, and has first-hand information, to contact us.”
“Even if you only have limited information, it could be vital for our enquiries, so we would encourage anyone who believes they can help to get in touch.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA’s Inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference 01902228.
The appeal is the latest animal-welfare investigation in south London to reach the public this year. Tulse Hill, in the London Borough of Lambeth, has also featured in recent weeks in our live coverage of a vehicle fire that closed the A204 in the area.
