A California man has been charged with felony animal cruelty after authorities say he killed a Chihuahua by teeing off on the 2.7-kilogram dog with a golf club.

A spokesman for the Riverside County prosecutor's office says 58-year-old Larry Jaurequi, of Menifee, also faces an enhancement alleging he used a dangerous or deadly weapon.

Jaurequi was arrested Jan. 26 after witnesses reported seeing him strike the dog with a golf club, sending the animal into the air.

The animal belonged to a neighbor and had gotten loose.

Jaurequi's arraignment date has not been set. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of four years in prison.

A phone listing under the name Jaurequi in Menifee led to a recorded greeting that wouldn't let callers leave a message.