Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was reportedly seen allegedly mistreating a dog at one of Australia’s most popular beaches.

Officers say the incident occurred about 9.15am on Thursday, when a man was observed handling a dog in a way that raised concerns while walking along Hooker Blvd at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast.

Animal welfare advocates have also shared claims about the incident online.

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According to the Facebook group Aussies Against Animal Abuse Est 2016, the man was later seen boarding the 743 bus to Broadbeach.

The group alleges the man was “pulling/choking, kicking and lifting this dog off the ground by the leash,” and claims footage shows him “kneeling on the dog’s neck” and “continually pulling hard / yanking the dog along the road”.

“The dog is clearly seen in the footage cowering with severe fear,” the group said.

Police are looking for a man who allegedly abused a dog at Broadbeach on April 30Police are looking for a man who allegedly abused a dog at Broadbeach on April 30 Credit: Aussies Against Animal Abuse Est 2016

Police have not commented on the online footage but are seeking any information that may assist the investigation.

Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident — or who has CCTV or dashcam footage from the area — to come forward.

Inquiries are continuing.

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