A man and a woman and their Staffordshire bull terrier were attacked in a park in Bournemouth on Sunday 4 September.

At approximately 6pm the victims were walking in Bourne Valley Park near to Evering Avenue when their eight-month-old dog approached a group of male teenagers.

It is reported that the group grabbed and kicked the puppy, causing swelling to its eye.

The dog owners approached the teenagers to attempt to get them away from their dog and they were subsequently both assaulted.

The group – described as aged between 13 and 17 years old – ran off in the direction of the skate park and Turbary Road.

Police Constable Louis Allen, of Poole police, said: “This was a very nasty incident and we are carrying out a full investigation to identify those responsible.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area and witnessed what happened to please get in touch.

“Also, I am keen to hear from any residents in the vicinity who may have relevant home CCTV footage to help my enquiries.

“I fully understand this incident will cause concern in the local community and officers from the local neighbourhood policing team can be contacted with any issues or information.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220145019. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.