A WOMAN has fostered a rabbit which suffered a narrow escape after yobs set their dogs on it.

However, another rabbit was killed by the lurchers.

Julie Bartlett, who lives in Hurworth, near Darlington, believes the Lionhead rabbit was either a stolen pet or was bred for the purpose.

Ms Bartlett said she had to pay for veterinary treatment after the RSPCA did not respond immediately when she called them.

She said she thinks the youths regularly visit Hurworth to set their dogs on rabbits.

The recent attack was witnessed by a friend of Ms Bartlett, who passed the rabbit on to her as she often fosters animals and had a spare hutch.

Ms Bartlett said: "You see all the youths coming into the village and this time, they managed to kill a rabbit, but the other got away and my friend picked it up.

"I called the RSPCA, but they didn't respond. I had to take it to the vet to get its claws done and for antibiotics."

Sophie Corless, from the RSPCA, said there had been no other instances of rabbits being attacked by dogs reported in the Darlington area over the past year.

She said: "However, we would urge anyone who may witness an incident of this nature to contact our cruelty and advice line immediately on 0870-55-55-999.

"The RSPCA is most grateful to Ms Bartlett for her help in taking in injured and unwanted animals."