A REWARD fund to catch whoever dropped a cocker spaniel into a Hampshire river with a weight tied to its neck has topped £3,000.

The Daily Echo reported last week how the dog was found dumped in the River Test with a 10kg weight attached to its lead. Hordes of readers have since phoned to pledge money to the fund, saying they were incensed by the brutal treatment of the animal.

Animal welfare experts have said they believe she did not drown because there was no water in her lungs when they carried out a post-mortem examination.

Instead they believe she died before she was dropped in the river although they cannot yet ascertain the cause of death.

But callers offering reward money say it makes no difference when and how the dog died - the perpetrators should be punished.

Scores of readers have offered to pledge donations ranging from £5 to £500 in a bid to catch those responsible.

Lynda Shearer, 53, of Fontwell Close, Calmore, said: "I was utterly appalled and disgusted that somebody could do such a thing.

"Even if the dog had died already there was no need to do that. It was obviously not a loved pet because anyone who loved that dog couldn't have done that to it."

The results of the post- mortem examination are expected early next week.

Anyone with any information is urged to contact the RSPCA on 0870 555 5999 or the police on 0845 045 4545.