Bexhill teenager injured in dog attack

Peter Verity, 16, was tending to a newborn calf on private land when he was approached by a black and tan German Shepherd dog at about 12pm on Sunday (July 5).

His mum Joni said the dog came from the direction of Highwoods, which backs onto the land.

She said Peter 'attempted to stop the dog from killing the calf and the dog attacked him'.

Peter was taken to hospital and has been told to return on Tuesday.

Joni added: "Luckily, his hands were the main brunt of the injuries which have deep puncture wounds.

"He is a lucky boy. The attack has been reported to police who will be investigating."

Joni said she has no hatred towards the dog or its owner but wants to make them aware of what their animal is capable of doing when it is out of sight.

"I don't blame the dog - it was acting on its drive," she said. "But dogs being walked in a public place really should be on leads, especially if there's a chance they may attack another animal or a human or run away onto private grounds into livestock.

"The mother cow was obviously distressed and also tried to protect her calf. The dog probably had some kind of injury from the mother cow, but it ran back in the direction of the woods.

"This dog should be on a lead if it's dangerous and out of control. Local vets have been contacted in an attempt to find the dog/its owner.

"Any information, if anyone knows this dog or owner would, be greatly appreciated. This will assist the police in their investigation and hopefully they can educate the owner.

"The attack happened around midday, so would of been lots of other dog walkers about that may know this dog or its owner."

Sussex Police said: "Police were called on Sunday (July 5) to a report of boy being bitten by a dog.

"The incident is reported to have happened around 12.30pm in Whydown Road. The 16-year-old boy suffered injuries to both hands which required hospital treatment.

"The dog is described as a brown/black Alsatian and is said to have left the scene in the direction of Highwoods.

"Anyone who saw what happened or who has any information about the incident is asked to contact police online or call 101 quoting serial 855 of 05/07."