Collie’s attack leaves dog ‘fighting for life’

A DISABLED woman has described the terrifying moment her Romanian rescue dog “tried to kill” her and viciously savaged her pet terrier.

Dog lover Joan Boyle, 61, needed hospital treatment and the terrier is still fighting for its life after suffering horrific injuries.

Joan was so moved by the plight of some animals in eastern Europe she joined an online community then agreed to home Dodger – who she claims she was told was a Jack Russell – for a few days alongside her three-year-old terrier Bobby and 18-year-old Jack Russell Lady.

Joan, who uses a mobility scooter and suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), arthritis and a heart condition, said the dog arrived and she was shocked to find it was, in fact, a collie.

She said the dog failed to integrate into the family – with the situation coming to a head when the Romanian animal attacked Bobby.

Joan, of Carnoustie, said her beloved pet sustained significant internal injuries, including puncturing of all his organs, leading to septicaemia.

Today she relived the moment the Romanian dog “flipped” and launched the vicious attack – which also left her with hand injuries and needing hospital treatment.

She said: “It was like he was possessed – he was being kept in another room but he managed to break out and he went straight for Bobby.

“He savaged Bobby, he wanted to kill him – he was ripping him apart right in front of me.

“I tried to stop him, I got in between them, and then he went for me and bit my hands.

“He is a strong dog – he was able to pull me and my mobility scooter along the road. Bobby didn’t stand a chance.”

Bobby is currently fighting for his life at a local veterinary centre.

Joan said she believes vets are currently keeping Bobby alive because of the devastating effect his death could have on her – but she doesn’t expect him to survive.

She added: “If he dies then I will never forgive myself for what has happened.”

Joan said Lady managed to avoid the attack by hiding under the bed while it took place – and she believes the collie would have taken the elderly dog’s life if she hadn’t done so.

The dog is now being held by authorities while an investigation takes place.

Scottish SPCA Inspector Robert Baldie confirmed an investigation had been launched into the incident.

He said: “We were alerted to an incident in Carnoustie on Sunday and inquiries are ongoing.”

Joan Boyle with her dog Lady, at home.