A fundraising campaign has been launched for a dog walker left with burns to his neck, chest, arm and leg after he was doused in acid by two men trying to steal his pet.

The 64-year-old had been walking Alfie in Hubbard’s Lane, Boughton Monchelsea, on Sunday morning when he was attacked.

Alfie, a 10-month-old and believed to be worth £3,000, was also scarred during the incident as the two men tried to snatch him, suffering burns to his back.

His owner Michael, who does not want to be fully identified for fear of reprisals, was taken to Tunbridge Wells Hospital after being helped by medics and a neighbour to wash off the chemical spray.

Michael’s wife Gabrielle, 66, was so shocked when she heard about the attack, which happened between 7.30am and 8.30am, she suffered a heart attack.

Sue Rose, from the German Shorthaired Pointer Society, has raised almost £2,000 after setting up a fundraising page after hearing about the devastating news.

On the page she said: “On Sunday 19th August two men tried to steal Alfie, a GSP puppy from his owner Michael. They sprayed Michael with acid when he refused to hand over the dog.

“When he challenged them and refused to hand over the animal, one of the duo sprayed him and his dog leaving Michael with burns to his neck, chest, arm and leg. Alfie also suffered multiple burns to his back.

“Both Michael and Alfie are receiving ongoing treatment which will leave Michael incapacitated for the foreseeable future.

“As a result of the stress Gabrielle has suffered a small heart attack and is undergoing cardiac tests and decisions regarding further treatment.

“This has left Michael, Gabrielle and Alfie traumatised following the attack.”

The incident has prompted officers to urge dog owners to be vigilant after the incident happened between 7.30am and 8.30am.

Firefighters, paramedics and police were all called to the scene.

The man was taken to hospital suffering from the effects of the substance and the dog was taken to a vet as a precaution.

The first suspect is in his 40s and of a large build and was wearing a white shirt and jeans.

The second suspect his 30s and slim.

DS Jemma Cropper said: "We are urging dog walkers in the area to be vigilant and are advising them to keep dogs on leads.

"We are also appealing for anyone with information about the incident or who recognises the descriptions of the two men to contact us."

If you saw anything, please call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 19-0357, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.