Outrage has erupted among animal enthusiasts following the release of a video showing animal services officers forcibly removing a dog by its neck from an apartment complex in Corona.

The video, circulated by the Los Angeles-based nonprofit Animal Rescue Mission, depicts the unsettling scene where the dog, without a leash, is being dragged by officers from a grassy area adjacent to a children’s playground.

In the footage, three officers are seen subduing the dog using catch poles as the animal struggles and twists in distress.

Critics have condemned the officers for what they call the use of “unnecessary force” on a dog that local residents have described as “sweet, friendly, and calm—even around children.”

According to an Instagram post accompanying the video, “Residents called Animal Control hoping the dog would be safely taken to a shelter where its family could locate it.”

“Instead, three officers treated him like a threat and traumatized him with unnecessary force. I’ve demanded their names, disciplinary action, and removal from field duty.”

Corona Animal Shelter defended its response, saying officers were called to the scene after reports of “a large dog behaving aggressively” near children. The agency said the dog was transported safely, found uninjured and will be available for adoption if its owner isn’t located.

“We recognize that incidents involving animals can be concerning, and we remain committed to transparency, humane animal care, and continuous improvement,” the shelter said in a statement on Instagram.