A VET who had to amputate a stray dog's leg after the animal was struck by a lorry has hit out at irresponsible pet owners.

Thankfully, black and white mongrel Sally has made a full recovery from the accident, thanks to the care she received at Sandy Edward's surgery in Cockton Hill, Bishop Auckland.

However, Mr Edwards is angry that she was allowed to wander the streets.

The lorry which hit her, he said, was carrying propane gas and could have caught fire, or shed its load.

Mr Edwards said: " It is down to irresponsible owners allowing their dogs to wander and cause accidents, without an identity chip or tag."

Now the vet and his staff are trying to find a home for Sally, who was taken in two weeks ago.

Penny Dyer, trainee veterinary nurse, said: "She just loves people but she needs a really good home."

Penny said Sally, aged between one and three, had coped really well since the accident and was fine around children. But she said the pet still needed a bit of house training.

Anyone who can help can contact the surgery on (01388) 602914.