Beijing, Aug 10 (IANS) A pet dog in China has survived a fall from an 18th floor apartment when its owner dropped it from the window after getting mad at the animal.

The owner was angry after the dog ran into his bathroom when he was bathing, a witness told the Global Times newspaper.

The dog received severe injuries after the incident Monday. The animal was found lying on a car covered with blood at a residential complex near Baiziwan Lu.

After the incident, dog lovers have renewed calls for animal welfare.

Such cruel behaviour should be an offence, Sun, who lives on the first floor of the building, said.

The owner was taken into police custody.

This person is sane, poses no threat to other residents, said a police officer, requesting anonymity.

Sun, who runs a pet shop at the compound, said the owner looks unsociable. He rarely says hello to neighbours and even didn't say thank you when I did a favour for him one time.

Nie Zhenzhe, who treated the dog, said the animal is not out of danger but is in a stable condition, according to the newspaper Thursday.