Guide dog puppy victim of disturbing alleged act of cruelty

A man has been arrested and charged after a guide dog puppy was allegedly kicked on Chapel Street.

The disturbing incident happened at South Yarra on Wednesday.

It’s alleged a 44-year-old man from Malvern East approached the 12-month-old puppy in training and kicked it with “considerable” force, causing the puppy to yelp and whimper.

The puppy was seated with its handler outside a business at the time.

The alleged offender was charged with animal cruelty offences and has been bailed to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court later this year.

The puppy was taken to a vet for assessment.

A person found guilty of cruelty to animals faces up to 12 months imprisonment or a fine of up to $19,000.