A DOG is recovering after being found tied to a bench in Northfleet with his tail callously cut off.

The tan and white Staffordshire-cross, nicknamed Stumpy, was found on July 30 with horrific injuries after his tail had been amputated by someone who did not stitch up the wound or administer medical care.

Police took the pooch to the PDSA veterinary hospital in Gillingham before he was picked up by Gravesham Council's stray dog service.

Stumpy underwent an operation to remove the infected tissue and to close the wound and is now being cared for at Viking Oak Kennels in Borough Green.

He is due to be transferred to New Hope Animal Rescue in Northfleet within a few weeks so a new home can be found.

Council leader Councillor John Burden said: "Whoever perpetrated this horrible injury deserves to be caught and prosecuted.

"The animal was in distress and was badly injured by this apparently inept attempt at amputation.

"I hope in the end this friendly animal finds a good and loving home."

After eight days the dog was not claimed so he became the council's.

To make donations towards the care of Stumpy or any of the other animals in need of veterinary care, call the Shrubbery Veterinary Practice, in Perry Street, Northfleet, on 01474 333 141.

The RSPCA has been informed of the incident.

Anyone with information about how it may have happened should call the council’s animal control service on 01474 56 44 22.