A HAMILTON man who allegedly intentionally injured a Labrador puppy with a shovel earlier this week is facing charges of animal cruelty, pending an investigation.

Hamilton Police sergeant, Jim Beaumont, said officers were called to a Hamilton address on Wednesday after a nearby resident heard the offending and alerted officers.

“Police were called to the address at 8.30am for a person beating a dog with a shovel (after) somebody nearby had heard the dog screaming for its life,” he said. 

“Upon attendance police discovered approximately 22 cannabis plants - small plants varying from five centimetres to 40cm.

“Police seized those plants.

“The male in his 30s was arrested and interviewed in relation to the cannabis and cruelty to animal offences, and was charged and bailed in regards to the cannabis.

“There is an ongoing investigation relating to the animal cruelty offences.”

Sgt Beaumont said the full extent of the puppy’s injuries were not known at this time, but it had been removed from the property and was receiving treatment. 

“The dog was seized by local laws and was ongoing assessment by the vet,” he said.

“They are continuing to monitor the dog and treat it.

“Once we see the full extent of injuries to the dog, we can make an assessment in relation to the animal cruelty charges.”

Sgt Beaumont said the offending was “terrible” and the male was scheduled to appear in court early next year.