Emaciated dog abandoned in Stockton alley

The dog has put on some weight since being found

The owner of a severely emaciated dog which was found collapsed in a Stockton alleyway is being searched for.

The abandoned German Shepherd weighed 11kg (24lb) when she was discovered in Norfolk Street, Oxbridge.

The animal was also dehydrated and anaemic and had a skin condition and badly matted coat.

Animal welfare officers were not sure she would survive but following two weeks of treatment she has put on weight and her condition is improving.

Stockton Council animal welfare officers said the dog weighs more than 12kg (26lb) now but the average weight for the breed would be about 25kg (55lb).

Council cabinet member for housing and community safety, Councillor Steve Nelson, said: "This is an absolutely awful case of animal cruelty and we are appealing for anyone who may know where she may have come from to get in touch with us in confidence."