Police are appealing for information after 11-week-old Sparky was killed.

Police in Craigavon are investigating an animal cruelty case after claims that a puppy was hit over the head with a hammer and microwaved.

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.

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In a statement on Facebook, the PSNI said: "Police are aware of an animal cruelty case and are actively investigating as we speak.

"Thanks to all who have already spoke to us.

"If anyone else has any information please forward to our private message or ring 101 quoting ref 1135 05/02/18."

Unconfirmed online reports suggested that a puppy had been killed after being beaten with hammers and put in a microwave.

Many people on the PSNI Craigavon Facebook page said they hoped that the reports were not true.

"I just hope this is rumour, and it didn't happen to that poor wee pup - please no one could be that evil," wrote one animal lover.

In November, a Co Down man was handed a two-year prison term after he butchered and cooked his dog.

Dominic O'Connor (27) from Kircubbin was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to the dog.

Belfast Telegraph