An animal charity has hit out at “unfounded” criticism of its actions over a shocking cruelty case.

The RSPCA was angered by comments made by Huddersfield man Kevin Dixon, who was convicted of cruelty when he bludgeoned a dog called Tempa to death with an axe.

Dixon, of Newsome, had admitted killing the Akita dog called Tempa but insisted he did so because the animal had bitten a child and claimed the RSPCA would not get involved.

But RSPCA inspector Natalie Taylor, who took on the case which ended at Kirklees Magistrates Courts, insisted they could not intervene and had no record of any call.

Insp Taylor said: “If a dog bites someone, it is a matter for the police or for the dog warden.

“As a charity we are concerned about animal welfare and our responsibility is to the animal.

“The RSPCA will not tolerate animal abuse. We are not responsible for dogs that bite people; that would be the responsibility of the owner and if needed the police, to protect public safety, and the dog warden.

Picture shows 35-year-old Kevin Dixon arriving at Kirklees Magistrates Court in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, for sentencing. Dixon, of Castle Avenue in Newsome was found guilty of animal cruelty after axing his neighbour's dog to death.

“Mr Dixon suggested that people had called the RSPCA after the dog bit a child but we would simply have referred in to police.. We would always urge people with dogs that bite to seek behaviour training and speak to a vet.

The RSPCA protects animals in need. We are a welfare charity and rely on public donations and we are inundated with calls”.

Dixon was given an 18-week jail sentence, suspended for two years and ordered to pay costs towards the RSPCA case. He was also banned from keeping animals for 10 years by the magistrates.

Insp Taylor said: “The Dixon case was a good outcome and I am pleased at the ban.

“In this case an animal has suffered and died through no fault of its own.”