AN urgent plea has gone out to re-unite a Staffordshire bull terrier cross with her family of puppies.

The milk-laden pet was handed into Stockton's Animal Welfare Team yesterday, who fear there may be some puppies somewhere which desperately need their mother to give them milk.

The bitch, which bore no form of identification, was found at Hardwick Shops, Stockton, on Sunday evening. No one has come forward to claim it.

It is being looked after by the National Canine Defence League, based at Sadberge, near Darlington.

Michelle Johnson, animal welfare officer, said: "We believe the dog may be in need of some medical care in the form of antibiotics. However, we are reluctant to do this as it could stop the flow of milk."

Anyone with information is asked to call the animal welfare service on (01642) 391126 or the National Canine Defence League on (01325) 333114 or (01642) 618946, after 6pm.