The husband of a friend was taking their small maltese out for its usual walk last week when a loose greyhoud came charging out of nowhere. Frank picked up Sammy and the greyhoud leapt off the ground and actually grabbed Sammy out of his arms and viciously shook and bit him. One week later, Sammy is miraculously still alive but covered in bites and stitched on neck and belly.

It breaks my heart because I am almost certain the greyhound will be seen as a dangerous animal - even though the owners are at fault - and suffer the ultimate consequence. However, my friends just want the financial restitution for the expense of Sammy's treatment.

PLEASE know where your pets are at all times. And do step up to the plate and take responsibility if necessary - you are their guardians.