By Alesha Capone
An elderly Hoppers Crossing couple are devastated after their beloved pet dog died after being attacked by a dog on the loose.
Raelene Wilson said her husband, Fred, was walking their Jack Russell-chihuahua cross Minnie along Hampstead Drive when the attack occurred about noon on July 15.
Mrs Wilson said a black dog, wearing a black collar covered in silver studs, ran at Mr Wilson and Minnie.
Mr Wilson later described the dog as looking like a Staffy.
Mr Wilson tried to beat the dog away with his walking stick and was knocked over by the dog as it ran away.
Minnie sustained severe injuries around her neck and legs and was rushed to the vet but had to be euthanased.
“My husband and I are a mess,” Mrs Wilson said.
“I’m speaking out because we don’t want it to happen to a child or another little dog.”
The Wilsons have reported the attack to Wyndham council.
Council’s director of city operations, Stephen Thorpe, said council officers were investigating the attack.
“Despite an extensive search of the area immediately after the attack, council has so far been unable to ascertain the location of the offending dog,” he said.
“There are no dogs registered matching the description of the alleged offending dog in the area.
“With all serious dog attacks, council’s main objective is to protect the community.
“Council is appealing to any member of the public to contact them if they have any information about the alleged dog attack.”
Any information about the attack can be reported to wyndham.vic.gov.au/contact or call 9742 0777.
