A stray dog service is appealing for information after a dog was found in such a bad condition they cannot tell if it is male or female.

The Swale council stray dog service has shared photos of a chow chow, now called Lana, who was picked up yesterday (Monday, March 25) in Iwade, near Sittingbourne.

The dog was found straying around Raspberry Hill Lane with gunky eyes and fur so matted the animal will need to be sedated for it to be shaved.

Lana is chipped, but the chip isn't registered so the team has been unable to contact the owner.

A spokesman posted online: “We're quite confident that she's female, but we can't be 100% sure due to extreme matting. Her entire coat is one large mass that will need to be shaved off under sedation.

“Her eyes are encrusted with a thick, black gunk, which will also require further investigation.

“This is abuse. If anyone recognises this girl or has any information on the owner, please contact SBC on 01795 417850.

“We will only consider releasing her to an owner if they can prove she has been long term missing or reported as stolen.

“Proof of ownership required.”