A couple who have had to remortage their home to raise a £40,000 reward for their lost dog, have been inundated with calls.

The husband and wife, from south-east London, also sold a wedding ring and released inheritance money to raise the cash.

their desperate measures followed the disappearance of their 15-year-old Labrador-cross.

The elderly bitch, called Natasha, has been missing since March and needs regular veterinary attention because of its age. She escaped after workmen in the house left a door open.

Mr Cousins, said: "The response to the press coverage has been amazing, but its too early to say if any of the calls will lead to anything.”