Walker mauled by dog as she tried to save her pet in park

A woman has been seriously injured in a dog attack in Aberdeen.

The 68-year-old victim was walking her dog in Hazlehead Park when the pet was attacked by a Staffordshire bull terrier that was off the lead.

The woman was badly hurt as she repeatedly tried to prise the dog away with the help of a passer-by.

Her 14-year-old dog, Mac, suffered serious injuries to his ear and side.

The attack happened at around 11.30am on Friday, February 28, according to police.

The woman, who was not named, was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary for treatment to injuries to her arm, hands and face.

She spent a second night in hospital and was undergoing surgery, according a family member who posted details on social media.

The bull terrier was not wearing a collar and the female owner was not able to restrain it, according to the relative’s post.

It read: “In trying to get the dog off Mac my mum was injured in the attack.

“Mum spent last night in hospital getting treatment to her arm, hands and face.

“She has been admitted and needs to spend a second night in hospital for further treatment in theatre.

“Our dog Mac (14 years old and incredibly gentle) sustained serious injuries to his ear and side as you can see in the picture.

“The dog who attacked them was not wearing a collar and the owner was not able to restrain him.

“With assistance from a passer-by my mum was able to get the dog off Mac three times but the owner lost control each time and he came after them again and again.”

The relative said: “If anyone knows who this is could you please get in touch.

“An attack on a dog and adult is bad enough. This could have been a child.”

Police Scotland said officers are appealing for witnesses to the attack.

A spokesperson said: “Officers are keen to trace the female owner of a Staffordshire terrier with a brown and black brindled coat that was believed to be involved and was in the park at the time.”