A LURCHER puppy that had been badly beaten and abused was dumped outside a police station in a carrier bag.

Sandy was picked up by Hartlepool Council after he was found at the town's police station, and was taken in by the Dogs Trust Darlington rehoming centre.

He has had to undergo an operation to re-set his leg, which had healed badly from an injury.

Sandy had terrible cigarette burns, which have left scars around his ribs. He also has severely chipped and broken teeth.

The charity is appealing to people to find four-month old Sandy a home.

The trust believes he must have been badly kicked or hit, but neither the charity or the police know who caused his injuries.

Sandy has a cast on his leg, which will be removed in two or three weeks. After that, he will be ready to be rehomed.

Dogs Trust Darlington rehoming centre manager Sue Embleton said: "Despite everything he has been through, Sandy is a lovely pup and seems to be recovering well. He is still young and should get over his ordeal pretty quickly.

"He is going to need a home with a little bit of patience whilst he recovers."

Dogs Trust worker Sarah Shreeve said: "He is a lovely puppy, full of energy and full of life. He is going to make a great family pet and would love to run round a garden with children."

To offer a home to Sandy or any other dog, call (01325) 333114.