UNITED KINGDOM -- A much-loved neighbourhood cat was ‘ripped to pieces’ last night by a Staffordshire bull terrier in Walthamstow, according to reports.
Reports suggest the dog was not on a lead and was running with its owner who was riding a bicycle in Rensburg Road late last night.
In what is the second time a Staffordshire bull terrier has mauled a cat in the borough in as many weeks, even the Met’s helicopter flew to the area to assist local police.
One resident who did not wish to be identified said: “The dog ripped the cat to pieces, it wouldn’t let go. The owner wouldn’t do anything and wouldn’t control the dog.”
He added that the street was now covered in blood and that residents are now terrified to let their children out as the dogs are commonly seen off the lead.
It is alleged the dog’s owner laughed during the attack.
Residents are now setting up a petition stating their wish for dogs to be muzzled and on a lead as they are walked through Rensburg Road and other nearby streets. The streets are popular with dog owners returning from Leyton marshes.
Police have been contacted for further information.
In an incident on July 10 a cat was mauled in front of three children, the eldest only six, in Simmons Lane, Chingford.
The cat’s owners were hit with a £500 vet bill after the cat was treated for serious injuries to its head.
The owners said the dog was on a lead at the time.
If anyone has further information contact reporter Zac Norman on 07825 244 844.
(East London and West Essex Guardian Series - July 22, 2013)
