Spice Girls fans defend Mel B after trolls brand her 'cruel' for dyeing dog's fur to celebrate England Lionesses

Mel B has been defended by fans after trolls accused her of “cruelty” for dyeing her dog’s fur to support England’s Lionesses in the Women's World Cup.

Scary Spice received a backlash after debuting Cookie’s new look ahead of England's final group match against Japan in Nice.

Sharing an image of Cookie’s blue and pink fur, Mel B wrote: “Just gave Cookie a vegan organic unicorn tie dye make over to mark the girls England football team making history today #instadog #unicorn #different #safe.”

But, despite pointing out that the dye was vegan, organic and safe, trolls targeted the singer’s post, calling her “disgusting” while others threatened to “unfollow her for cruelty”.

But hundreds leapt to her defence as they praised Cookie’s football celebrations – although some joked they thought she had been “cut open” when they took a quick glance at the pinkish-red line down her front.

One wrote: “Why is everyone so mad?? She literally said 'vegan organic' and '#safe'. We paint ourselves for events, this dye won’t hurt the puppy, and it’ll wash easily.”

Another said: “The dog is fine everyone needs to calm down!”

“This is completely safe for anyone concerned, the dog will feel like it’s just being washed and it won’t burn the skin whatsoever!” commented somebody else.

A different user said “I thought this was a surgery pic at first glance! Phew thank God it’s not,” while another posted: “Omg I thought you cut her open.”

Mel B then posted a video of Cookie playing and showing off her new fur.

“Just look at how happy cookie is with her new look!!! #instadog #pamper #organic,” she wrote.

The mother-and-dog duo then sat down to watch the game, with Mel B posting an Instagram story saying they were “gripped” by the action.

“Girl Power to the @Lionesses playing in the friggin World Cup right now,” she wrote. “Me and my dog Cookie are gripped to the TV, eating some Thai food Leeds style with my hair treatment on right now. COME ON ENGLAND!”

Following their 2-0 victory over Japan, the Lionesses finished top of Group D and will now wait eagerly to find out their next opponent ahead of this weekend's game.

Mel B's post comes hours after Holly Willoughby sparked a backlash for celebrating horse racing during day two of Royal Ascot.

Some said they were “disappointed” in “sick” Willoughby for “supporting a cruel sport” after she cheered on Dashing Willoughby.