THE RSPCA is to examine a police file over the death of a puppy that touched the hearts of animal lovers across the country.

The charity requested the file after police arrested a man, who was later released without charge.

Pictures of the six-week-old pup provoked a national outcry earlier this month.

The dog had to be put down because of injuries it received in an attack.

Police originally believed the dog may have been set upon by teenagers.

They investigated claims the pup had been kicked around a park, in South Shields, South Tyneside, like a football.

But last night Northumbria Police said they had ruled out claims that the dog had been used as a football in the Temple Park area of the town.

Northumbria Police said: "The 31-year-old man who originally brought the puppy into the authorities was arrested on suspicion of cruelty to an animal. However, he was later released with no further action.

"The injuries of the dog appear to be as a result of an incident in the man's home, rather than being caused in the park.

"Police are now satisfied no local youths were involved and there was no incident in Temple Park."

The statement went on to confirm that a copy of the file had been sent to the RSPCA.

Animal lovers from as far afield as Holland have pledged thousands of pounds in reward money after being touched by pictures taken moments before the dog was put down.

Donations poured in to the St Francis Animal Rescue shelter in the town, where the injured dog had been taken.

Staff took the pup to a vet, who said it had suffered brain damage and was blinded in one eye.

Last night, a spokesman for the RSPCA said: "We will be looking at the file and considering what, if any, action we are going to take."