THIS pet dog is lucky to be alive after it was stolen to order for badger baiting and ripped apart.

The seven-year-old Border Terrier had its stomach torn open and underwent emergency surgery and around 60 stitches after a member of the public found it near a badger sett in Alderholt.

Michelle Jones, an animal welfare officer for East Dorset Council, said: "We think the terrier is a pet dog stolen for badger baiting but it wasn't very good at it. The badger must have turned on it and delivered some horrendous bites.

"The dog was ripped to pieces, I have no idea how it managed to get out of the sett - it's lucky to be alive.

"Badger baiting is illegal but it's a hard thing to catch. We can't be certain but it is our assumption this dog was used for badger baiting. It was savaged.

"We are concerned for the welfare of the dogs and the badgers."

Large sums of money are typically bet on the barbaric sport, which sees badgers and dogs fight to the death.

But police in Dorset say if it is happening, it's within such secretive networks that they don't get to hear of it.

Wildlife officer for Dorset Police, PC John Snellin, said: "This is virtually unheard of in Dorset. But this type of crime is a real closed shop.

"I wouldn't be surprised if it does happen here and there, but we don't get to hear about it.

"A terrier is the typical type of dog they'd use, although they might use two or three dogs at a time. There is usually quite heavy betting involved."

And he said Dorset Police would be keen to hear from anyone aware of badger baiting going on in the area.

Now the Margaret Green Foundation, in Purbeck, where the terrier is recovering, is keen to trace its rightful owners.

The dog didn't have any name tag or identity chip but the charity believes that before this attack she had been well cared for.

If you recognise her and can help trace her owner call Michelle Jones on 01202 886201. Alternatively, if you wish to offer her a new home call the Margaret Green Foundation on 01929 471340.

First published: May 26