Dog attack traumatises holidaying family

Simon Carey and his wife, Rachel, were walking through High Street on Thursday afternoon with their two children, aged four and six, and dog, Meg, when a pit bull terrier launched a vicious attack on their family pet.

The pit bull – which was not on a lead – bit the foot of the young Yorkshire terrier shih tzu cross, taking a large chunk out of the animal’s paw.

Simon, 49, of Birmingham, described hearing his pet yelp as it was attacked, close to Costa.

“It’s totally ruined our holiday,” added the teacher. “The children were absolutely distraught. As I walked away my daughter was sobbing on my shoulder.

“I heard her talking in her sleep and she said, ‘Leave Meg alone!’. It’s had a traumatising effect on her.”

Mr Carey said he took Meg to the Fitzalan House Veterinary Group, in Fitzalan Road, where vets told him his dog probably would never walk properly again.

The treatment has cost the family about £450 so far, meaning it will probably cut their holiday short.

Mr Carey added the owner of the terrier gave a false address.

He added the dog warden and police had been informed about the incident but there was little they could do.

He is now appealing for witnesses to the attack to contact him.

The mauling happened just before 5pm.

Witnesses can call 07870 564648 or email [email protected]

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