A much-loved 12-year-old cocker spaniel has been put to sleep after suffering catastrophic injuries in a dog attack.
The cocker was being walked on a lead along a public footpath near the Isle of Wight Crematorium at Whippingham on Friday night (25th September) when he was attacked by another dog, described as a bull terrier-type breed.
The injured spaniel was taken to the vets by his owners following the incident, but his injuries were so severe that he was subsequently put to sleep. He suffered multiple puncture wounds, extensive muscle damage and fractures.
The grieving family says the attacking dog was off-lead and emerged from a nearby property.
Concerns have been raised about the safety of other dogs and members of the public using footpaths in the area. As far as the family are aware, no measures have been taken to secure the dog alleged to have been involved in the attack.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has confirmed that enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the attack – which took place at around 21:30 on Whippingham Station Lane – are ongoing.
Police are now appealing for witnesses and footage as part of their investigation.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, was in the area at the time or has doorbell, dashcam or CCTV footage which they believe could assist officers should contact Police on 101, quoting reference 44260471056.
Island Echo is told that the Isle of Wight Council is investigating the incident in relation to an alleged breach of a Public Spaces Protection Order.
