A new image of a man photographed “dangling” a dog from a moving vehicle has emerged – this time with the same person holding the animal by its hind legs near the boot of a Suzuki Swift.
The new image was shared widely online, with animal lovers left outraged again.
The Herald reported on Friday that the man had been interviewed by police after a case of animal cruelty was opened on Wednesday.
He was photographed “dangling” the dog from a moving vehicle.
The man told police he had been trying to prevent the dog from jumping out of the silver Suzuki Swift.
The driver who photographed the incident has also given a statement to the police.
But the new image, shared widely on Facebook, shows the same man holding the dog by its hind legs in front of the open boot of a car.
Animal Welfare Society manager Hannes Stander said while he did not agree with the man’s actions, the dog appeared to be in a good condition.
“We found out who the owner was and we immediately went to the house to make sure the dog was okay.
“The dog was in a good condition. It wasn’t nervous among the family and he actually seemed very happy. We can’t get involved any further.
“We have got to allow the law to take its course,” he said.
Responding to the images posted online, one Facebook user, Gillian Meyer, said: “This is insane! This dog must be rescued immediately. No more images are required. This is disgraceful. Where is the SPCA?”
Another, Angela Winter, said: “I fail to see how it’s OK to drag your dog by its back legs and then put it in the boot.
“Why not just close your windows? Disgusting!”
Kathleen McNulty posted: “The other picture is also disgusting. He is seen still holding the dog by its back legs and dumping it in the boot. He should never have the right to have any animals.”
Police spokesperson Col Priscilla Naidu said the investigation was based on the statements of the witness and alleged suspect – rather than the images that surfaced online.
“We are not using the photographs as evidence.
“We finalised the investigation based on the statements of the witness, as well as the alleged suspect.
“Based on that, it has gone to the senior public prosecutor for a decision.
“They will have to make a decision whether to charge or withdraw,” Naidu said.