We’ve left the graphic footage out of this article because it can be distressing to some readers - but you can watch it here.
A heartbreakingly cruel video of a dog being violently abused in Manurewa has sparked outrage across the country - and locals are hitting the streets and offering rewards of their own to find the person responsible.
The footage, shared by Chained Dog Awareness NZ (CDANZ), shows a man over the weekend kicking and dragging a limping dog by its lead. He’s then seen brutally picking the dog up and slamming it onto the concrete in what’s said to be Clendon Park in Weymouth.
CDANZ says they’ve had a few leads, but are now door knocking in the area to try and locate the abuser.
A concerned Wellingtonian was so affected by the footage, they’ve offered up a $5000 reward for info that leads to the man being identified.
Another $2000 has also been offered by a “devoted” animal rights activist who said: “Enough is enough.”
Posting to Facebook, he said: “Whenever I come across something like this, it makes me furious, and I feel overwhelmed with emotion.
“I am not inherently violent, but if I were to witness someone harming or mistreating a dog, I would become extremely angry and lose my composure.
Dogs mean everything to me; they are like my children, and their safety and well-being take precedence over all else.
CDANZ has promised anonymity for anyone who comes forward and even said they won’t name the owner publicly if they front up themselves.
“A concerned Wellington business owner and long-time supporter of CDANZ has stepped forward to offer a $5000 reward for information that leads to identifying the man responsible and relinquishment of the dogs. Your identity will remain confidential."
“If you know who this person is, or have any information that can help, please speak up," they added. "This dog deserves justice and protection from further harm.”
They’re urging anyone with info to email them at chaineddog@gmail.com, adding that enforcement authorities can’t do much without an address.
The SPCA has also asked the public to pass on any leads to help move things forward.
In the meantime, CDANZ and a bunch of passionate locals aren’t letting this one slide.
