A PREGNANT dog who lost nine puppies after being left for dead by a hit-and-run driver is making progress following emergency treatment.

A community rallied round the lurcher - named Molly by vets - raising more than £1,500 for her medical treatment.

Kind-hearted police officers launched the appeal after The Dogs Trust charity agreed to underwrite the vets’ bills.

Three-year-old Molly was hit a by a white van at around 7.30am on Saturday morning at Harelaw, near Stanley in County Durham.

Sergeant Dave Clarke, who launched the appeal, said: “Police attended the scene, finding the dog in pain and rushed her to Prince Bishops Veterinary Hospital at Leadgate, where she was treated for a broken leg and significant cuts.

“When she was x-rayed at the vets, she was found to be pregnant, unfortunately due to the trauma, she lost the pups.

“The dog is making progress, however she has a long way to go. We need to raise some money to help with the treatment and medicines that she will need in order to make a full recovery.

“We have to say a big thank you to Prince Bishops vets in Leadgate who have shown the utmost compassion to this dog.”

The dog is being cared for by the vet and Sgt Clarke has said police are keen to speak to the driver of the van.

He said: “This dog was left for dead. It is an offence to hit a dog and not stop so we will looking to speak to the driver about what happened.”

Molly is being cared at vets’ until a permanent home is found.

Vet Gemma Taylor said: “She is very soft and sweet and has formed a bit of bond with us.”

Anyone with information can call the force non-emergency number 101.

To support the appeal, visit justgiving.com/mollycoddle