Dorchester County, SC – Tuesday video surfaced that appears to show a Dorchester County deputy striking a K9 twice in the face.

The video was captured on cellphone video and posted on social media.

Video courtesy: Sissy Reynolds

Witnesses said the deputies were training dogs at a lot in Summerville. The Sheriff’s Office reports the dog bit his handler during the training.

Sissy Reynolds who recorded and published the video exclusively told News 2 she was shocked the post received so much attention.

“We just want something to be done. We just want to make sure the puppy doesn’t get hit again,” said Reynolds.

In response to the video, the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office published a statement on its Facebook page reading:

“Ladies and gentlemen, we are completely aware the video was posted this evening. We have posted a picture of the dog’s behavior which prompted the corrective action. The K9 handler was participating in training and giving the dog commands. As you can see in the photo the K9 bit the handler on the left arm. These are highly trained and aggressive K9s. They must at all times follow commands given to them by their handlers. This is the only way to assure the handler’s and the public’s safety. There is much liability in training and handling the dog and they must ultimately respond to every command as given.”

Sheriff L.C. Knight with the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office told News 2 he does not believe the deputy broke protocol.

“The dog was not following his commands, and like I said earlier the officer had to get his attention. The dog and the handler are a good team. They’ve done some good things for us,” said Knight.

Sheriff Knight said a review of the situation will be conducted. If protocol and procedure was broken there will be repercussion for the deputy involved.