A two-month-old puppy left quivering in fear after four teenagers kicked, punched and threw it through a basketball hoop, has a new home.
The black Labrador pup has been adopted by Dave Readings, the police sergeant who was called to the park in Papakura, south Auckland last weekend after reports the teenagers were abusing the dog.
The puppy was badly bruised and was barely able to stand but did not suffer any broken bones. Several hours later it was still shaking in fear at the SPCA village in south Auckland .
SPCA director Bob Kerridge said the pup was going to a good home where it would get the love and attention it needed and should not have any long-term consequences.
"Animals are very forgiving, particularly dogs ... and if they go into a home where they are loved, that seems to take over."
He said the SPCA's concern was that the animal abusers were so young.
"You have to ask where these kids are going."
The four boys were referred to Police Youth Aid.
NZPA