A PET dog was seen desperately trying to get into moving cars after reports it was dumped in the middle of a busy road.

Witnesses said they saw the mongrel, which is thought to be about six-years old, released from a car near to the junction between Belmont Road and Scout Road, before the person in the car shut the door and drove off.

The terrified mutt was then seen desperately running up and down the road trying to get into moving cars and narrowly avoided being hit.

She has now been taken to the Bolton Destitute Animal Shelter in Northolt Drive, after two women managed to transport her there.

Shelter staff have named her Sadie and said she is a "wonderful animal."

Manager Karen Rickards said: "We can't confirm that she was definitely dumped but we have had reports from numerous witnesses to say that is what happened.

"They said she was desperately trying to get into other cars, she has clearly been well trained and can do tricks and everything.

"Most of the dogs that we have at the shelter have no real emotional attachment to humans, but Sadie clearly has - when you look into her eyes you can tell she is missing someone."

Ms Rickards said she would like to hear from anyone who may have details about the car that allegedly dumped Sadie, such as a registration number.

She added: "It is just thoughtless and mindless if someone has dont this, she is such a lovely dog."

Anyone with information about Sadie, or if you would be interested in adopting her or any other dogs at the shelter, contact 01204 526 486 or email bolton@animalshelter.org.uk