A dog has had to be put down after being repeatedly kicked by a group of teenagers.

Sasha, a nine-year-old rottweiler, was tied to a tree outside Marketown shopping centre on Steel St in Newcastle West when she was allegedly attacked around midday on Friday.

Her owner returned about 12.15pm — just 15 minutes after leaving her — to find Sasha with serious injuries.

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She was rushed to a vet but had to be euthanised due to the severity of her injuries.

Police established a crime scene and launched an investigation about 2pm on Sunday.

“It is believed the dog was assaulted by a group of people while it was tied to the tree,” police said in a statement.

Officers are now appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

“We are desperately seeking witnesses,” the owner’s family said on a social media post.

“Help us find justice for Sasha.”

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