Cats killed by loose dogs

Darlington Borough Council has said it is investigating reports of pets being set upon by greyhounds which are not on a lead in the Red Hall area of town.

The matter was brought to the attention of the authority by newly-elected ward councillor Martin Landers.

Two residents have contacted Coun Landers after witnessing their animals being mauled by dogs.

Because no harm has been done to humans, action can not be taken by police under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

However, it is hoped the council's Anti Social Behaviour team can help resolve the issue.

Coun Landers said: "This is an issue that all animal loving people need to be aware of and it needs to be nipped in the bud immediately.

"These cats suffered horrific injuries not to mention the distress this brought to their owners.

"We need to do all we can to ensure that no more cats suffer this fate - someone needs to meet with the dog owner and agree how the dogs might be exercised in way which doesn't pose a threat to cats."

At least two cats have been killed by the dogs in the last two months and a number of other pets have also gone missing.

Chris Hodgson witnessed his pet black and white cat, Tails, being savaged by the dog.

He said: "The cat had ran up the fence, but the dog just pulled it off.

"The cat was still alive when I got to it, but all of its internals were hanging out.

"By the time I finished calling the police it had died."

He added: "My fiancee was crying, there was nothing I could do to console her.

"It's not the dogs' fault, they're just doing what comes naturally. It's the owners who should have them on a lead."

Mr Hodgson said another of their cats has also gone missing and never been found and he fears it suffered the same fate.

Another lady who lives on Red Hall also witnessed her cat being killed in the same manner recently, but she declined to comment.

Last night, a spokeswoman for Darlington Borough Council, said: "We are aware of these allegations and are conducting an investigation."