Two men have been charged after a kangaroo was allegedly tied to the back of a car and dragged through Goulburn in southern New South Wales.

Police received reports that a kangaroo was being towed through the town on Tuesday night, before the occupants cut it free and fled.

Officers from The Hume Local Area Command found the dead animal a short time later, at the intersection of Auburn and Montague Streets.

Two men, aged 20 and 21, have been issued court notices for offensive behaviour.

They will appear at Goulburn Local Court next month.

Police also said two 17-year-olds, who were also allegedly involved, would be dealt with under the Young Offenders Act.