A Chihuahua has had to be put to sleep after suffering devastating injuries in a dog attack in Southend, with Essex Police now appealing for witnesses as they investigate the incident.
The attack happened at around 8.10am on Wednesday 29 July near the skatepark in Warrior Square, close to the car park.
Police say a woman was walking her two small dogs on leads when a large black mastiff-type dog, which was reportedly off its lead, ran up from behind.
It is reported that the larger dog grabbed one of the small dogs in its mouth and ran off with it, inflicting catastrophic injuries. Despite efforts to save the dog, the injuries were so severe that it later had to be put to sleep by vets.
The victim’s daughter described the traumatic incident and is now urging other dog owners to remain vigilant.
She told Your Southend: “My mum’s small dog was viciously attacked while on her lead near the Warrior Square skateboard park, close to the car park. My mum was walking her two small dogs when a large black mastiff-type dog, which was not on a lead, charged over from behind. It grabbed one of her dogs in its mouth and ran off with her.
“The owner was unable to control his dog and did not take responsibility for what had happened. Sadly, my mum’s dog suffered such severe injuries that she had to be put to sleep.
“Please be extra vigilant if you are walking your dog in the area, or if you have young children, as this dog may still be out in the community. Please share this warning with others as the man has been seen again walking the dog off a lead!”
Paul Woodmason was nearby at the time of the incident. He said: “I was there in the skate park doing litter picking when I heard the screams!”
Terry Champ, who knew both the dog and its owner, added: “She was such a lovely dog. I’m so upset as knew her and the owner. I hope the police can get the evidence they need to take to prosecution of owner, and also take action against the dog.”
Essex Police attended the scene and found the Chihuahua had suffered serious injuries.
The force has confirmed it is investigating the incident and is appealing for anyone who witnessed the attack, or who has CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage, to come forward.
Anyone with information can report it through the Essex Police website or via the force’s 24-hour Live Chat service. Alternatively, call 101 quoting incident reference 42/120080/26.
What are the rules for dogs in public?
In England, there is no general law requiring all dogs to be kept on a lead in public places. However, owners must keep their dogs under proper control at all times.
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, it is a criminal offence for a dog to be dangerously out of control in any place, including public spaces. A dog can be considered dangerously out of control if it injures a person, or if there are reasonable grounds for someone to fear that it may injure them.
Dog owners also have a duty under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to ensure their pets do not cause unnecessary suffering to other animals.
Local councils can also introduce Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) requiring dogs to be kept on leads in certain parks, beaches or other designated areas. Owners who fail to comply can face fixed penalty notices or prosecution.
Even where leads are not legally required, organisations including the RSPCA and The Kennel Club advise owners to keep dogs on a lead if they do not have reliable recall, are reactive towards people or other animals, or are in busy public spaces where they could pose a risk.