DAVID Cameron today condemned the theft of stolen Bradford husky Murphy – telling MPs such acts were “appalling”.

And the prime minister said the pain was even greater when “much-loved pets” are snatched for dog-fighting, as is increasingly feared.

Mr Cameron spoke out after the theft of Murphy – which has attracted international attention and a huge Facebook campaign – was raised in the House of Commons.

Murphy went missing in a suspected abduction by two men in Scholemoor Cemetery, Bradford, on December 4.

During prime minister’s questions, Shipley MP Philip Davies urged him to use his power to “draw attention to the problem”, saying: “There has been a spate of dog thefts across the Bradford district “There was a rally in Bradford to bring people’s attention to Murphy, a husky who was stolen recently “This is very distressing for the owners and dogs concerned – both of whom are devoted to each other.

“Some of these dogs are used for practice for dog fighting and who knows what fate awaits some of the other dogs who are stolen.”

Mr Davies also urged Mr Cameron to “make sure the authorities investigate these crimes and take them as seriously as any other crime”.

In reply, the prime minister said the Shipley MP had “raised an important point”, telling MPs: “We are a nation of dog lovers.

“People are very attached to their pets and it’s appalling when they get stolen, particularly for the sort of purposes my honourable friend talks about.

“Obviously, the changes we have made in terms of compulsory chipping should help with this issue, but my heart goes out to anyone who has had a much-loved pet taken away from them.”

The weekend before last, dozens of dog owners turned out at City Park to show solidarity in the search for Murphy, who was stolen in early December.

His owner, Andy Smith, is desperate to get the dog returned and has mounted a social media campaign which has attracted thousands of followers in this country but also worldwide.

He said, recently: “Murphy is a rescue dog who is four years old and I have had him for two years but am his ninth owner. People just don't understand the husky breed.

"It has been five long weeks since he was stolen. We cannot concentrate on anything and it is putting a strain on the family. I am not eating or sleeping.”