A dog, that appears to have had her microchip removed, has been found by the stray dog service.

Yesterday a female lurcher was found in Lower Road, Teynham, with a wound on the back of her neck which a vet believes is indicative of having a microchip removed.

The Swale Borough Council stray dog service is appealing for any information.

It has been suggested that this is the first case they have come across where a dogs microchip has been deliberately removed.

A spokesman for the council said: "We’re appealing for information about a white female lurcher nicknamed Lottie who was found in Lower Road in Teynham last week.

“Lottie was taken straight to the vet by her finder, who attended to a wound on her neck believed to be where her microchip was removed.

“Although this is the first time we’ve seen this type of wound in one of our stray dogs, Lottie has been given the all clear and is now being cared for at Karebear Kennels waiting to be reunited with her owners.

“If anybody has any information that could lead to this little girl finding her way home, please call us.”

If you know anything about this dog or believe she maybe your missing pet, call the council on 01795 417850.

The out of hours service can be reached on 07795 237479 or the kennels on 01634 233624.