A MAN who picked up a dog by the throat, punched it in the head and threw it against a fence is being sought by police.

Officers investigating the animal cruelty incident, which took place in the beer garden of the Buffalo Bar, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, have released CCTV footage of the suspect.

Police Constable Emily Watkins said: "The footage of this incident is very disturbing and we have made attempts to identify this man, however these have so far been unsuccessful.

"I am now issuing an image of the suspect in the hope that someone may recognise him.

"I would ask anyone who knows who he is to please contact Dorset Police so we can investigate this incident with colleagues at the RSPCA."

CCTV footage shows the man picking up the large black dog before throwing it against a fence, punching it in the head then picking it up by the throat.

He then drags the dog away along Holdenhurst Road.

The incident took place on Sunday, April 14, at 6.55pm, but Dorset Police have only just released the CCTV images.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190056299.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.