A large boxer-type dog, which was off its lead, ran up and bit seven-year-old Toby several times, inflicting deep wounds on his back and leg.
Owner Alan Yates, 69, said the attack, which occurred in Humberstone Park, happened so quickly he could do nothing to stop it.
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| Toby recovering after being savaged |
The other owner managed to drag his dog off, but Toby had to have immediate treatment at a nearby vets.
He had stitches inserted in nine wounds on his back and leg following the incident in the park, which is popular with dog owners.
Mr Yates, of The Circle, in Crown Hills, Leicester, said: "This is the third but the most serious attack Toby has suffered in the past couple of years.
"I normally take a deterrent spray with me but I did not have it on this occasion.
"I was walking in the park at about 2pm on Friday.
"I saw a dog was running free and tried to stay away from it, but it came up to us. Toby growled, and then it attacked him.
"It was all over so quickly and it was not until I examined Toby's wounds that I realised how bad they were."
He said the other owner said sorry and walked off.
Mr Yates is now calling on all owners who use the park to keep their dogs under control.
He said: "I know there are a number of owners of small dogs who are wary about taking their animals into the park because large dogs are allowed off their leads."
His daughter, Lynn Yates, said that Toby's treatment had cost £400 and he had had to have a drain put in his back to remove fluid.
He will also have to wear a protective jumper until the stitches and drain are taken out.
She said: "It was very upsetting to see Toby whimpering after he came home from the vets.
"We would like the owner to come forward and take responsibility for what has happened. He needs to realise that letting his dog off its lead again could result in further attacks."
She also said that she thought the dog needed to be muzzled.
Ms Yates thanked the staff at the Medi-vet Borrajo practice, in Uppingham Road, for looking after Toby and tending to his injuries.
Ward councillor Deborah Sangster said: "This is the first time I have been told there is a problem with dogs being off their leads in Humberstone Park.
"I shall discuss the matter and see what can be done if owners are concerned."
A spokesman for the police confirmed the incident had been reported.
(Leicester Mercury - Jan 3, 2012)
