An animal rescue centre has hit back at claims it mistreats its huskies after a photo alleging abuse was widely shared online.

Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Eynsford was responding to an image circulating on social media which appears to show one of its huskies next to a dirty and broken water bowl.

The not-for-profit organisation admits that while "it is not ideal" as it has to change the water often, it does believe the dogs are happy.

In a post online, Eagle Heights explained: "This photo is currently circulating on social media misinforming people that our animals are mistreated.

"The lovely boy in this photo is Odin – Odin is a gent. But, he does love a chew. As you can see from his water container, he and his friend Koko, also like to splash. They do this in their water bowl."

It continued: "In fact some days you would think they are two toddlers playing in a paddling pool – they absolutely love it.

"The person that posted this photo and encouraged almost 1,000 of her followers to share it claims we are mistreating our huskies by allowing them to chew their water container and splash about happily.

"For anyone that isn't aware, these are rescued working dogs. They do not want a fluffy bed or a China bowl with their name on it.

"They want a bundle of fresh straw and the freedom to express their behaviours without being confined to domestic demands.

"They walk miles every day with our staff, pull rigs and even go on adventures up mountains and across counties in the keeper's spare time."

The foundation insists its huskies are both happy and well-suited to the environment they are now in.

It says the dogs did not enjoy house life – with some having destroyed entire kitchens just out of boredom.

However, it has now received messages from people saying the RSPCA has been informed.

"They want a bundle of fresh straw and the freedom to express their behaviours without being confined to domestic demands."

In response, Eagle Heights said: "Now whilst we are more than happy to welcome them and any other animal welfare association, we can't help but think this is a gross waste of their time and resources.

"We are licensed and regularly inspected. Our animal welfare officer has often praised us on putting the nature of the breed first and designing a unique and meaningful life for them.

"We do not wish to create any more drama, however we do need to protect our name and reputation as this photo is being shared with captions such as, 'disgusting', 'poor babies' and 'do not visit this place'."

As a not-for-profit organisation, it says it does not get anything from its work other than pure joy and satisfaction and so to deal with false mistreatment allegations is "utterly heartbreaking".

Its Facebook post added: "If you see this being shared and you feel any questions arise or you want to speak to one of the keepers, please message us or come and visit.

"We welcome any question as we are very proud of what we have achieved here over 26 years.

"To those that already knew the above. We thank you for your wonderful support."

The RSPCA said they have not received any reports relating to Eagle Heights.