Witnesses have been asked to come forward after a dog had to be put down after being attacked in Co Dublin.

The Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals confirmed that the dog, a Jack Russell cross believed to have been less than one year old, suffered extensive injuries after allegedly being kicked and beaten by a man.

A garda spokesman said officers at Balbriggan are investigating the incident reported to have taken place in the Dún Saithne area of the town around 10pm last night.

The DSPCA said that their inspectors collected the dog and brought him to their veterinary team. A preliminary x-ray revealed a fractured spine, ribs and some paralysis to its back legs.

However, when the full extent of the dogs injuries were known it was decided to put him out of his suffering.

A spokeswoman for the DSPCA said, "We are continuing to appeal to the public to help with any information. The alleged incident happened in front of a group of children and adults and the DSPCA are asking anyone who witnessed it to make themselves known.”

She confirmed that the DSCPA will work in conjunction with gardaí to prepare a book of evidence for consideration in a prosecution.