Family pet left fighting for life after savage attack

Poppy, a miniature Jack Russell was attacked by a Staffordshire type dog in the village on the afternoon of Sunday November 23.

Speaking last Monday, his owner Sharon Gracey said the next 72 hours would be crucial.

The dog required surgery at Lurgan Vet Clinic after the attack, which left part of her bowel hanging out.

Poppy had been for a walk with Sharon’s son Thomas when she slipped her lead and ran off, only to encounter the other dog a short distance away.

Sharon said: “This other dog just came down and locked onto Poppy.”

Thomas, who is autistic, bravely went to the aid of his stricken pet.

Sharon said: “Poppy is really tiny and Thomas had to prize the other dog’s mouth open, our other two dogs jumped in and the big dog let go.”

Thomas was able to gather up his three pets and get them home and the family rushed Poppy to Lurgan Vet Clinic for treatment.

Paying tribute, Sharon passed on her thanks to Jonathan at the clinic for his expertise and compassion.

For Poppy the story is far from over with concerns of further complications given the extent of her injuries and, on Monday, the next 72 hours were to tell the tale.

Sharon said: “I’m devastated and so is Thomas.”

She went on: “I don’t blame the dog, I blame the owner.

“Dogs are being thrown out at Donaghcloney but this dog seemed to be well looked after.”

On Wednesday morning Poppy’s owner reported that her dog was badly bruised but eating and signs were hopeful.