A PET food store in Halesowen was targeted by burglars - who took a collection box for an animal rescue - in an early hours raid.

Butchers Own, on Halesowen Road, was broken into by burglars who stole pet treats, a float from the till and the collection box for Team Poundie - a charity which saves dogs from death in council pounds.

Owner Mark Wall said a man living in the flat above the shop heard the burglars and disturbed them.

The incident happened at 1.35am on Wednesday April 29 - and has forced Mark to shell out on CCTV to protect his business.

Team Poundie is a UK registered charity which saves dogs who are collected by dog wardens. The animals have seven days for an owner to claim them and are then euthanised unless they are taken by a rescue for the chance to find a new home.

Mark, said: "They took the collection box which was probably the most upsetting thing - they just didn't give a hoot and just robbed the charity.

"If they hadn't have been disturbed they would have got a lot more.

"They had lots of the natural treats bagged up which they can sell on easily on sites,

"It's not very nice - I'm angry, but realistic.

"We had a bar gate made to go over the back door, but they cut it and smashed the lock in.

"We are putting in CCTV tomorrow and hope that will make a difference."

Mark, aged 56, set up the business with his partner Mandy Webb, aged 56.

The former butcher started his shop after feeding his dogs with raw food.

He specialises in food for cats and dogs.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We are investigating reports of a burglary at Butchers Own on Halesowen Road, Halesowen, just after 1.35am on Wednesday 29 April.

"A rear door was forced open and money was taken from the till and from a charity collection box.

"Anyone with any information can get in touch with us via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk, quoting crime reference number 20dy/100094q/20.

"Or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Mark said the shop moved from smaller premises on Shell Corner around two and a half years ago.