Woman injured in horror 'Pitbull' attack in Middlesbrough as police destroy dog

Woman injured in horror 'Pitbull' attack in Middlesbrough as police destroy dog A woman and her dog were reportedly attacked by an 'unaccompanied Pitbull type dog' near a lake in Middlesbrough, leaving the victim's pet needing emergency veterinary surgery A dog has been destroyed by police after a woman and her pet were attacked near a lake, with officers taking the action "due to the serious nature of the incident and the potential risk to other people in the immediate area". The woman was reportedly walking her dog near Hemlington Lake in Middlesbrough when an "unaccompanied Pitbull type dog" struck. Police were called to reports of a dog being dangerously out of control. The woman was bitten, though not seriously, Cleveland Police say, but her dog was left seriously injured and is now undergoing emergency veterinary surgery. The animal's current condition is not known, reports Teesside Live. Assistant Chief Constable Dave Sutherland said: "Initial indications are that a member of the public was walking her dog when she was approached by an unaccompanied Pitbull type dog which then attacked her pet. "The lady sustained a dog bite during the incident and thankfully this is not believed to be of a serious nature, however sadly her own dog sustained very serious injuries and was taken to the vet by police officers, where it is currently receiving emergency treatment. "Unfortunately, due to the serious nature of this incident and the potential risk to other people in the immediate area, our specially trained officers had to put the dog down near the scene. We understand that anyone who witnessed the initial attack or the aftermath may have experienced shock or distress however the safety of the public is always paramount. "Enquiries are ongoing, and we are appealing for anyone with information regarding this incident to contact Cleveland Police via the 101 number or via the force website. Please quote reference 125672."