Dog killed in Ropley kennel by burglars
A pet dog has been killed during a burglary at a house in Hampshire.
The collie, called Red, was chained to her kennel outside the garage of the home in Ropley, near Winchester.
Police said the burglars forced open the doors to the garage some time overnight into Friday and hit Red on the head with a heavy object.
They fled empty handed and left one-year-old Red with fatal injuries. She was found the next morning by the family, who said they were devastated.
They took her to the vet, but she had to be put down because of the extent of her injuries.
PC Emma Purser, of Hampshire Police, said: "The family are shocked and distressed by the callous and brutal attack on this defenceless creature, who was chained to her kennel outside the garage and posed no risk to the offenders.
"She had been bred by the owner and was expected to eventually be put to work on the family farm, herding sheep.
"It appears they have injured Red whilst trying to gain access to the garage and have then left empty handed.
"I would urge anyone with any information about this despicable attack to get in touch at the earliest opportunity and help us find the person or people responsible."