‘It was terrifying’ - Norwich woman’s guide dog attacked by pit bull

UNITED KINGDOM -- A woman whose guide dog was bitten by a Staffordshire Bull Terrier has spoken out about the “terrifying” ordeal.

Mhairi Claxton, who can only see shadow-like shapes, was walking along King Street in Norwich when her guide dog Bramble was attacked.

The 41-year-old said she heard a dog growling, then it suddenly clamped its jaws around the neck of six-year-old Bramble - a black Labrador.

“For me it was terrifying, but I eventually got the dog off,” she said. “It just seemed like it took forever, although it was probably only a few minutes.

“I didn’t even hear the claws of the other dog.”

She said she had to open the Staffy’s jaws to get it off, and while Bramble did not suffer puncture wounds there was internal bruising.

Mrs Claxton said she told the Staffy’s owner to muzzle the dog, but the woman left the scene.

Another couple, who were passing by, drove Mrs Claxton and her guide dog to Chapelfield Vets for help.

“There are too many guide dogs being attacked, and also other dogs,” said Mrs Claxton. “I want to raise awareness to stop other dogs being attacked and for owners to be responsible.”

She added Bramble was shaken up by the incident, but was still able to work.

Do you recognize this person: Police have now released an image of a woman
who police believe may have information about the incident.

“She’s been reasonably ok walking around with me, although we haven’t come across the type of dog that actually attacked her,” she explained. “We have come across areas where there are [Staffys], and she’s very reluctant to go that way.”

The attack happened at around 11.30am on Tuesday, June 17, when Mrs Claxton was on her way to pick up a prescription.

Police are investigating, and have released a CCTV image of a woman they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

Anyone with information should call PC Michael Pearce at Bethel Street Police Station on 101.

(Evening News 24 - June 24, 2014)