A LURCHER dumped by two men who shouted "look after the dog" to a stranger will soon be ready for a new home.

Bella, who is believed to be around 10 months old, was tied to the gate of a property in Lyndhurst by the men who then drove off in a pick-up truck.

The owner of the property heard the men call "look after the dog mate" as they dumped the brindle lurcher-cross-saluki on March 23.

RSPCA inspectors called to help discovered Bella was unable to bear weight on her hind legs and she was taken to the charity's Ashley Heath Animal Centre.

Investigations then began to find the cause of her mobility problems.

Inspector Penny Barker said: “It’s heartbreaking to think someone could just abandon a dog like Bella.

"She was unable to walk and initially we didn’t know why she couldn't stand.

"The vet who treated her gave pain relief, but found no obvious cause.

“She then came into the animal centre the following day and went to our clinic for full x-rays, which strangely showed nothing.

"It was concluded it was a possible neurological issue or similar.

“The animal home approached staff at Verwood Hydrotherapy Centre Canine Rehabilitation and South Coast Hydrotherapy, who have very kindly provided free therapy.

"Bella is now making a great recovery.

"Although she is still a little unsteady at times, she is now up on her feet and walking around.

“We couldn’t be more thankful to the team at the hydrotherapy centre and to the member of the public who kindly brought her into our care."

Once Bella is back to full strength she will need a forever home with owners who can give her the care and support she needs.

Insp Barker has called for anyone who knows how Bella came to be abandoned, or the identities of the men responsible, to come forward and call 0300 123 8018.