PALATKA, Fla. -- A Putnam County man was arrested Thursday, accused of throwing a puppy repeatedly into a lake, throwing it against a pole and shaking the animal.

Witnesses told the Putnam County Sheriff's Office that Sabeno Martinez-Perez would throw the dog in the water, revive the animal and throw it into the water again.

Investigators said he also swung the animal by its neck and threw it against a pole.

The deputy arriving at the public beach area of Lake Broward in Pomona Park said Martinez-Perez refused her order to take the dog out of the water, then picked it up by its front legs and shook it vigorously.

"He was just saying it was his puppy, or his dog, and he knew how to take care of it," Putnam County Sheriff's Office Capt. Rick Lashley said. "We disagree."

The mixed-breed puppy, estimated to be about 10 to 12 weeks old, is being cared for by Putnam County Animal Control.

"She seemed to be in pain. She had gurgling sounds from water being in her lungs," said Stacey Coullfette of Animal Control.

They said the puppy is already doing much better and they have her a new name: Bella.

Martinez-Perez is charged with felony cruelty to animals. Putnam authorities later learned he is an illegal immigrant and they are contacting federal authorities to have him deported.