Representational Image. (Thinkstock)
A New York City man is facing animal cruelty charges after police say neighbours witnessed him beat his puppy and bury the dog alive in a snowbank.
The Daily News reported on Saturday that Raul Cruz was also charged with weapons possession and torturing and not feeding an animal. He was released on Friday night on $5,000 bail. Information on his attorney wasn't immediately available.
Sgt Derek Mercado tells the paper officers responding to neighbours' calls had to dig the whimpering puppy named Hennessy out of a two-foot (60-centimeter) snow bank. The 43-year-old Cruz was then arrested.
Court papers show a veterinarian treated the dog for skull, leg, rib and back fractures as well as lost teeth.
The paper says the dog is currently being cared for by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).