Blind guide dog attack victim thanks public for support (From Times Series)

Cricklewood attack woman speaks out after attack at station

7:20am Wednesday 25th November 2009 in News By Alex Hayes

THE owner of a guide dog attacked at Cricklewood station has thanked the public for their support since her ordeal was made public.

Neela, a chocolate Labrador, was savagely attacked in an underpass at the station by a terrier-like dog being walked by a man on October 4, receiving neck injuries which have only just healed.

British Transport Police have released images of the attack in a bid to trace the terrier's owner, who was seen loitering in the underpass before the attack and did not help Neela's blind owner afterwards.

The 59-year-old victim praised the public for their offers to pay vet bills and make donations to the charity Guide Dogs.

She said: “The support we have received from the public has been fantastic and really touching.

“The donations many people have offered mean at least something positive has come from this, as the charity receives no Government funding of its guide dog service.

“I am so relieved Neela has recovered well from the ordeal. The fact she is able to continue working as my guide dog is testament to her amazing strength, temperament, training and to the strong bond we have as a partnership.”

Detective Constable Gerry Griffin said: “This dog was not muzzled and was dangerously out of control. The woman was extremely distressed and feared for her own safety.

“What made this awful incident even more harrowing was the fact that the man made no effort to assist her or to check that she was alright once the attack was over.”

The man had to punch and kick his dog before it would release the guide dog's neck. He then ran off in the direction of Lichfield Road.

DC Griffin added: “We have carried out a number of enquiries and ask that anyone who recognises the man gets in contact with us.”

“The owner would do well to hand himself in as his animal poses a clear danger to other dogs and to the public.”

He is described as white, aged mid to late 20s and around 5ft 11in tall, of slim build with a cropped beard, short brownish to red hair and was wearing a grey coloured top and black tracksuit bottoms.

The dog is described as a muscular terrier, possibly a cross-breed, brown with white paws, white around its nose and at the tip of its tail.

Anyone with information can contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.