AN emaciated stray boxer dog which has gone blind in one eye after an injury was left untreated has been handed in to animal welfare officers.

The bitch, found at Waterford Road, Norton, near Stockton, has been described by the officers as being so skinny that it resembled a whippet.

Stockton Borough Council's animal welfare officers are appealing for information about the dog which was handed in on Tuesday.

The dog's left eye was ulcerated, possibly as a result of an injury, and it has now only the use of its right eye.

The animal is still being examined by vets.

Derek Hall, animal welfare officer, said the boxer was only 14 kilos, half of what its weight should be.

He said: "Her pads are OK and her nails are long so she can't have been out on the streets for long. She will have to undergo surgery on her left eye, but the sight is already gone. She is a lovely, obedient dog and will make a great pet. However, we are not looking for potential owners to come forward just yet as our investigations are ongoing."

Mark Berry, Stockton Council's principal environmental health officer, said: "How anyone could allow an animal to become like this is beyond my comprehension.

"We are keen to find and interview the owner as soon as possible."

Anyone who can help officers find the owner can call, in confidence, Stockton Council's animal welfare officers on (01642) 526557, or (01642) 526552.