LAST UPDATE | 17 Mar 2023

A MAN HAS been charged after a dog was found partially buried alive in Derry.

The man (29) is to appear in court with offences including causing unnecessary suffering to animals, and four counts of failing to take reasonable steps to ensure the needs of an animal.

The incident happened on Wednesday in Ballyarnett Country Park, and the dog was later put down due to her injuries.

PET FBI Rescue, an animal welfare organisation based in Derry, took the American Bulldog into their care after she was found. The organisation said rocks had caused catastrophic injuries to the animal.

The PSNI said the man is scheduled to appear before Dungannon Magistrates’ Court tomorrow.

In a previous statement today, the PSNI said a 29-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty offences and was in police custody.

Inspector Kyle Rowntree said:

“On Thursday 16th March, officers also conducted a search under warrant at a property in the Carnhill area.

Three dogs were removed and placed into the appropriate care for their well-being. Enquiries are continuing and police would like to thank the local community for their assistance in relation to this investigation.

Pet FBI’s Vivian Kelly described the incident to BBC News as “soul-destroying”.

Additional reporting by Emer Moreau