A DEVASTATED Colley Gate family are warning dog owners to be on their guard after their Yorkshire terrier died following a savage attack by an unleashed Staffordshire cross.

Nine-year-old Troy was set upon on in Teme Road, Colley Gate, by the unidentified dog and died three days later.

The much-loved pooch belonged Becki Burke, who was on holiday with her parents Denise and Gerry Burke, when tragedy struck.

Troy, who was being looked after by a family friend, was attacked by the Staffie cross who bit into his neck and ear, while out for a walk on Monday September 14, at about 5pm

Mrs Burke said there was a lot of blood and the friend raced to a vets for treatment to try save him.

His injuries included a perforated middle ear drum and despite an overnight stay at the PDSA hospital, Oldbury, and further veterinary check-up, he died in the early hours of Thursday September 17.

Mrs Burke, whose daughter lives at the family home in Long Innage, said the vet called them in Ibiza with the grim news that Troy had been critically injured.

Their holiday was spoilt and Becki, aged 27, left with a £1,000 vet’s bill.

Mrs Burke said: “Our friend was very distressed, but it wasn’t her fault. The dog was not on a lead and bounded across the road – ignored her Alsatian wolfhound cross – and attacked our little Yorkie.

“The owner – a man – showed no concern – but he should have had his dog on a lead.

“There is nothing we can do for Troy, but we want to warn people – that dog could attack again and it could be a child next time.”

She added: “Becki was inconsolable. Troy was a very friendly dog and wouldn’t have hurt a flea.”

The Staffordshire cross was about 10 months old, a light brown brindle, with a white chest and longer legs than an average Staffie.

Its owner was in his late 30s, and either bald or with very short fair hair, about 6ft, clean shaven, wearing tracksuit bottoms and a dark cagoule.

Mrs Burke said the police were notified about the attack and anyone with information which could help track down the dog end its owner should contact her daughter on 07718 327530.