bull terrier found emaciated three weeks ago.

The dog was found running stray by Insp. Louis Ray, of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and was recovering steadily under his care.

But between last Friday evening and Saturday morning, thieves broke into the SPCA compound, cutting through wires, and stole the dog.

The pit bull was found on North Shore Road, Devonshire, after the SPCA was alerted by a member of the public. Insp. Ray found the dog in a "deplorable'' condition, weighing only 39 pounds.

Yesterday, Insp. Ray said the dog weighed more than 60 pounds when it was stolen, adding he believed it had been taken for breeding.

"During the day last Friday two men came into my office asking me questions about the dog and then during the night someone broke into the kennels and took it,'' added Insp. Ray.

"I think this dog is such a good dog that he was possibly taken for breeding.

The offspring will be worth quite a lot of money. I am begging members of the public to help us find this dog.''