A BODY of a dog, thought to have been killed in an illegal dogfight, has been found dumped in a Hampshire lay-by.

The 19-month-old Dog de Bordeaux bitch was covered with bite marks to her head legs and back and a vet confirmed it had probably died Thursday night.

The body was found at 9am on Friday by a member of the public, who alerted the RSPCA, police and a dog warden.

RSPCA inspector Jan Edwards said: "Although we cannot rule out the possibility this dog was attacked by another pet and it got out of hand, it if far more likely this poor creature was involved in dog fighting, possibly being used to bait the trained dogs before a fight.

"We are very concerned that there may be other injured dogs, in need of treatment and I would urge anyone who has information about this incident to contact the RSPCA so we can ensure no other creatures are allowed to suffer in this manner."

She went on to say the wounds and bloody mouth suggest the dog was trying to get away from its attacker.

The body was dumped opposite Alpacca Farm in Graywell Road, between Maplederwell and Up Nately, Basingstoke.

The original owner was traced to Tyne and Wear.

However, they said they had sold the dog, called Lady, on the internet more than a year ago.

She was bought by a middle-aged woman from either Surrey or Sussex who drove a silver Lexus.

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 4999.