Dog owner wants justice after pit bull attacks greyhound

OREGON -- A Portland dog owner said he wants justice after an aggressive pit bull put his greyhound in the hospital.

But at this point, no one can figure out exactly who owns the pit bull.

KGW received an email from the dog's owners right after they brought their greyhound to the emergency room at Dove Lewis Animal hospital. That's where they met us to talk about what happened while the dog was still in surgery.

"It simply comes down to our old geriatric dog was not able to even defend herself and doing something that was a normal and common thing - going potty - and was attacked," said Dino Cloward.

Kolu Westcott was dog-sitting the greyhound, named Lauren, when the attack occurred.

"I was really worried about Lauren. She's old and they have really brittle skin so I was concerned about her safety," Westcott said.

The 14-year-old greyhound is also a retired race dog.

Sunday afternoon, Kolu took the dog outside in her apartment courtyard for a walk when she said a pit bull also in the gated area lunged at Lauren.

The pit bull bit Lauren behind her ear and tore at her legs, Westcott said.

Most of Lauren's teeth were removed several years ago because of tooth decay, so she didn't have any way to fight back.

"She was howling and squealing but she doesn't have many teeth so there's nothing she could do to try and get away," said Westcott.

Once Westcott was able to get the dog to safety, she called police and Lauren's owners, Maria and Dino Cloward.

"All I needed to do was just to get to the dog as quickly as possible," said Dino Cloward.

"I was just so shocked because our dog is so sweet," added Maria Cloward.

Who owns the pit bull?

KGW went to the Alendale Apartment complex where the attack occurred. There are breed restrictions, and pit bulls are not allowed.

It's possible the pit bull was visiting with a guest of someone at the apartments. That worries other dog owners like C.C. Jones.

"That's a damn shame, I hope the greyhound isn't hurt too badly," Jones said.

Jones' little dog, Lady, was just one of many we saw on the block.

"I don't understand. When is it going to stop and be taken seriously? This is crazy. It's ridiculous," said Dino Cloward.

KGW tried repeatedly to find the owner of the pit bull, to no avail. Multnomah County animal control is also investigating.

(kgw.com - ‎Jan 12, 2015‎)