To think this is really out of order?

[Angelwendy]

I was just round at my boss's house briefly (had to drop some forms off) and his dog was in the room at the time. The dog did a poo on the carpet and then went and hid under a table. My boss grabbed it from under the table very aggressively and then smacked it with incredible force on its side. The dog whimpered loudly and went back under the table and was shaking.

I understand giving an animal a very light tap and telling them "no" in a stern voice if they have done something really naughty, but the force and aggression my boss used has really upset me and he definitely will havee bruised the poor thing. I don't really know what to do - if I give somewhere like the RSPCA an anonymous tip off, he's going to know it was me and I really can't afford to have my job in jeopardy. I don't feel I can just sit back and do nothing though. I mentioned it to a colleague I'm close with and she said she's witnessed him screaming at the dog on numerous occasions. What would you do?

Sorry but he is an absolute shit. If it was me I'd report him. He would never have proof it was you. I cannot tolerate animal cruelty. Poor dog. No wonder he was pooing inside. He's probably terrified. Fucking bully

I would look for another job.

I think I'm going to have to report him. The poor thing is only a little dog too. Think it's a jack russell. I felt sick to my stomach when he whacked it

I wish I could but this job pays well and gives me good flexibility to work from home too. There aren't many jobs in the area I live and I have a lot of outgoings

Report it and give your details. Offer to help him find it a new home as he clearly doesn't like it.

That's awful If you're in a position to take the dog yourself, I might offer to take it in (with a view to avoiding the reporting vs. job situation). If you aren't, then definitely report. I know you need the job and this is a horrible situation to be in, but the dog can't speak up for itself and it needs your help. Poor thing, your boss sounds horrible. Good luck

I have a cat who hates dogs so unfortunately wouldn't be able to. It's such an awkward situation. I'll definitely do something to help the dog, just need to think carefully today about what my next step will be

Would your employer not take kindly to your boss abusing animals?

If yes, I would report him to animal charity AND his boss.

Weak, cowardly excuse of a man.

My boss owns the company. There are only 6 of us who work there. I just don't know how someone could hurt an innocent creature. My cat tests my patiences sometiems but he loves me unconditionally and I'd feel awful if I even raised my voice to him

What did you say when he whacked the dog? How did boss react?

I didn't say anything but glared at him and he could definitely sense I wasn't happy about it as he said "don't look like that, this is a new carpet!" and then changed the subject straight away. I wish I'd said something but I'm not an assertive person and I felt really awkward.

What are the RSPCA going to do, realistically? The police wouldn't investigate smacking a child.

Could you bring it up with him again? Do you know if he's had the dog long? It sounds as if the dog needs to be rehomed, frankly, but it's very unlikely the RSPCA will do anything if it is indoors and fed etc., and no evidence of mistreatment except an anonymous report.

If you felt you could have a conversation with him - "Hey boss, it's really been bothering me seeing your little dog cowering under the table - does he toilet inside often?" - and go from there to suggesting that perhaps it's better off in another family, would that be an option you could take?

He's had it about 4 years I think. He took it in when his friend (the dogs previous owner) died so I'm guessing he doesn't actually want the poor thing out of choice.

I was thinking I could bring up the pooing on the carpet and then suggest he rehomes it and give him the number of a local dog home. Don't know what I'll do if he says he doesn't want rehome it though

If you can do that, it would be great.

You could also get in touch with your local dog rehoming charity. Smaller local ones are usually most approachable. They may be able to offer ideas.

I wish you'd put a warning in the title this was about animal cruelty OP