A Lhasa Apso named Benji has tragically passed away after suffering life-threatening injuries during a dog attack in Darwen, Lancashire. On April 29, Karen Hawthornthwaite was walking Benji, her seven-year-old dog, when they encountered an unleashed pocket bully that ran across the road toward them. Despite the owner’s attempts to call the dog back, it attacked Benji, grabbing him by the leg and refusing to release him.
Karen struggled to free Benji, while the owner of the attacking dog punched the bully in a desperate attempt to make it let go. Despite their efforts, the attack continued until the dog was finally removed, and Karen rushed Benji to the vet.
Unfortunately, the injuries to Benji’s front left leg were severe, leading to an infection that necessitated the amputation of his leg. Despite the operation, Benji’s condition worsened, and he was eventually put to sleep on May 6, the fifth anniversary of the day Karen adopted him.
Karen described the event as traumatic, and the aftermath has left her unable to sleep due to fear of encountering the attacking dog again. She criticized the owner for not reaching out with an apology and expressed frustration with the police response, as she has not heard back from them since filing a report.
The total cost of veterinary care is expected to be around £6,000. Karen has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the expenses, and while £1,800 has been raised, the funds are still needed. The RSPCA has noted that the case is being handled under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, with the police taking charge of the investigation.
Karen is now advocating for a change in the law regarding dog-on-dog attacks and is determined to seek justice for Benji. She thanked the community for their support and shared her heartbreak at the loss of her beloved pet.
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