A vicious alsatian attacked an Angus girl as she carried out her paper round, The Courier can reveal.
Chloe Patterson from Carnoustie was taken to hospital after her elbow was punctured by the large black-and-tan-coloured dog, which ”grabbed” her as she cycled through Panbride Road.
The 15-year-old was left badly shaken by the incident and suffered severe bruising and swelling down the length of her arm.
The man who was walking the dog failed to stop and check the teenager’s condition and police are now keen to trace him.
Mother Linda Patterson (43), said the animal had ”lunged” at her daughter before sinking its teeth into her arm.
”The dog has pierced her skin and she has bad bruising and swelling on her arm,” she said.
”More than anything else it has really knocked her confidence, and she has just gone into herself since it happened.
”She said the man called for the dog to sit and she had gone up on to the pavement, but the dog has just jumped at her and bit her.
”It has taken her by the arm and had a real grip of her elbow, almost like a police dog would, that is where they tend to jump.
”Chloe has been emotionally drained by the experience. I can’t get my head around the lack of concern towards a young girl. I’m determined to find this person.”
Mrs Patterson, who is a housewife, took Chloe to Arbroath Infirmary to get the wound treated.
Fortunately, the youngster had recently received a tetanus jab at Carnoustie High School.
The family have a pet labrador and Mrs Patterson said she was worried Chloe may now develop a fear of other dogs.
A spokeswoman for Tayside Police said officers were appealing for witnesses after the attack at about 8.10am on Saturday.
She added: ”The 15-year-old suffered a minor injury as a result of the incident and the dog is believed to be an alsatian.
”Police are keen to trace the owner of the dog who is described as being male, aged about 50 years old, of stocky build with a bald head.
”Officers are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who knows the identity of this man to contact Tayside Police on 0300 1112222, or speak to any officer.
”Information about this incident can be passed anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”