AN Andover man whose pet was stolen while he was visiting a patient in Andover War Memorial Hospital fears the animal could have been taken for dog fighting.

Robin Russell from Blendon Drive visited the hospital on Friday evening and left his pet, 'Tootsie' tied up outside near the bench at the entrance to the wards. When he returned an hour later there was no sign of the 12-year-old Jack Russell bitch.

"She is a very affectionate dog and I am very attached to her but she is no good to anybody for breeding purposes," said Mr Russell.

"I have heard there is a dog fighting club operating in this area and she could have been taken for use in connection with this."

After making inquiries with the police, vets and the Test Valley dog search Mr Russell has learnt his is not the only missing dog.

As a regular visitor to the hospital with Tootsie those responsible for her disappearance may have been tipped off about her being there.

She is a typical example of her breed mostly white in colour with brown and black markings.

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