Vicious attack left dog needing surgery

Sylvia Langham, 81, of Colebrook Close, Worthing, was sat with her three-year-old dog Alfie in Denton Gardens on Thursday afternoon when two white Staffordshire bull terriers attacked it.

She said: “It was terrible. The trauma it’s caused me. It’s a wonder it didn’t kill me the shock it’s put me through.”

A member of the public intervened to split the dogs up, but Sylvia said she was in such a panic she forgot to ask for his name.

Alfie was then taken to Grove Lodge Vets for life-saving surgery.

According to Sylvia, the surgeon was shocked by the extent of Alfie’s injuries.

The dog is now resting back at home and requires five different types of medication.

“He’s all swollen up and bruised. It’s awful,” said Sylvia.

“All my friends have little dogs they will all be terrified to go out with them.”

Council spokesman Neil Hopkins said: “We are aware that there was an incident in Denton Gardens last week which resulted in very serious injuries to a small dog.

“Thanks to decisive action from a member of the public, the dog was swiftly treated and is now recovering.”

The council is in contact with Sylvia, the police and dog attack specialists.

Any witnesses to the incident should contact the dog warden on 01903 221064.