Shocking footage has emerged showing a girl swinging a small dog on its lead by its neck.

The video clip - filmed in Marina Road, Ramsgate yesterday - has been circulated widely on social media.

Footage of a girl swinging a dog by a lead has been shared on social media

The girl uses her foot to shift the tiny animal around on the floor as it scampers around next to her.

She then lifts the dog, holding it in the air and letting it dangle on the lead while it desperately struggles.

Nicola Walker, spokesman for the RSPCA, says the animal charity is aware of the incident but would not confirm if an investigation has been launched.

She said: "We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and we would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare.

"Unfortunately we are unable to discuss complaints about specific people and what action may have been taken.

"We understand how frustrating that is for animals lovers but releasing information could prejudice a future investigation or could lead to us being fined.

"A lot of the time issues will be dealt with by advice and education and it is not always appropriate to publicise this information for legal reasons.”

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