DOGS have been seized from a home following concerns of a man “punching” a dog.

Harwich Community Policing Team and the RSPCA conducted a joint visit to an address in Harwich on Tuesday afternoon after reports were received of a man punching a dog on the beach near Lower Marine Parade, Dovercourt, on February 16.

A total of three dogs were seized from the address by officers, and they have been handed over to the RSPCA which will be leading this investigation.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “It was reported a man was seen assaulting a dog before becoming verbally abusive with members of the public.

“The dogs are now on their way to the vets where they will be checked over and receive any treatment if required.”

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A witness of the event which occurred at about 8.45am took to Facebook to report what happened.

She said: “It was very upsetting, he let the dog off the lead and it ran on the beach and attacked a little Springer Spaniel several times.

“His dog wouldn’t return to him and eventually when he got it he really beat it, holding it up and punching it.

“He carried it back to the promenade hanging from its collar.”

Another witness added: “It was the most awful thing I’ve seen, that poor dog’s little body.

“I was so upset with anger, I tried to buy the dog from him.

“Anyone who confronted him got a mouthful.

“I dread to think what he does to that poor dog behind closed doors.”

Following the dogs being seized, a spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us.

“We would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare.”

Essex Police said no-one has so far been arrested.

A spokesman said inquiries are on-going and anyone with information should contact Essex Police on 101.