CRUEL burglars may have blinded a dog in one eye after attacking him during a break-in.

They squirted an unknown liquid into the 11-month-old boxer’s left eye during the raid in Burdun Close, Witham.

The owner, who had been visiting family, returned home on Saturday at 9.30pm to discover the dog was in pain and unable to see out of a reddened eye.

He took him to Spring Lodge Veterinary Hospital in Powers Hall End, Witham.

Vets are worried the dog might now have an ulcer on his left eye and could lose sight.

The dog’s owner, who asked not to be named, said: “It makes me angry.

“I wish I had been there at the time. They wouldn’t have been able to do that if I was there.

“I don’t know if the spray was intended for me or the dog, I don’t know if I am being watched.

“To do that it must have been someone on drugs or someone who hates animals.”

The owner returned home to find the front door partially open, and smashed glass in the hall.

He discovered a 15ins screwdriver in his bedroom, his drawers had been emptied and five pairs of brand new Adidas trainers were missing.

Det Con Nick Campbell said: “Not only was this an invasion of a victim’s home, but the level of violence shown to a beloved pet dog is appalling and extremely upsetting for the family involved.

“We would like to hear from anyone with information about the burglary or from anyone who has been offered trainers for sale in suspicious circumstances.”

Detectives want to trace the owner of a number of 21st birthday cards found nearby during house to house enquires.

They are asking for anyone who has recently lost any 21st birthday cards or had any stolen in a burglary to come forward.

  • Anyone with information can call DC Campbell at Braintree CID on 101.