A dog died of its injuries after being shot by a Victoria police officer who was in the process of arresting a wanted man on Monday (June 17). 

"We understand that people may feel strongly about the well-being of this dog. Rest assured this decision was not made lightly," VicPD said in a statement to Black Press Media. 

The incident happened around 3:30 a.m. in the 500-block of Ellice Street as an officer tried to arrest a man who had two outstanding warrants related to breaching conditions and a mischief charge. 

VicPD said a dog emerged for a "nearby tent" and "lunged aggressively" toward the officer, who moved away and was chased by the pet.   

"Fearing serious injury, the officer discharged their firearm killing the dog," police said. 

An officer with the canine unit attended the scene and provided medical aid, but the dog died of its injuries, VicPD said. The force added that it learned the dog was designated as dangerous and it wasn't muzzled and leashed at the time of the incident as it was required to be. 

The dog was cremated per its owner's wishes.