An investigation has been launched in Idaho after a video of a woman 'boxing' a dog was posted on Snapchat.
The woman, who is wearing boxing gloves, lands several punches on the German shepherd's head while whoever is filming says: "We're boxing animals. Where's Sarah McLachlan?" He then begins to laugh.
At the end of the clip the woman can be heard saying: "I hit him so hard, I felt that through..."
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The original poster of the video has since removed it, but not before it was captured and shared on other social media sites.
The clip sparked outrage after it was circulated online with many calling for the woman to be prosecuted.
Now the Idaho Humane Society has said it has started an investigation into the video after receiving an 'overwhelming' number of phone calls and emails about it.
Posting on Facebook the society said: "There is a video circulating through social media which we will not repost due to its content which originated in the Treasure Valley. It has been shared through many social media networks and our Animal Care and Control office is receiving an overwhelming number of phone calls and emails.
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"We started an official investigation as a result of this video. This morning the individual was identified and we sent a Humane Officer to discuss the situation. The investigation is currently pending review at the local prosecutor's office for a charging decision."
They went on to say a prosecutor may decide to press charges under 'beating and harassing animals', which states that 'every person who cruelly whips, beats or otherwise maliciously treats any animal shall be up guilty of a misdemeanour'.
The post went on: "The Idaho Humane Society works to protect all animals from abuse. We also believe that because domestic animals are a product of human intervention, we have a very special obligation to them in regard to humane treatment and responsible stewardship."
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It then urged members of the public to stop getting in touch over the clip as it was now being dealt with, meaning further calls could result in delays to the society's other crucial work.
A spokesperson for the Idaho Humane Society told the Idaho Statesmen if the woman was charged she could face up to six months in prison or a $5,000 fine.
Featured Image Credit: FacebookTopics: Animal Cruelty, Dog, US News