Dog attack misery for teenager

Later that same day a flower tribute they laid on the ground was stolen - even though the pink roses were placed next to the large patch of blood where their pet died on the seafront.

Sixteen year old Stephen Shepherd was left traumatised by the attack which happened at the end of Bolebrooke Road where he lives.

He had reached the seafront with the family's three Yorkshire Terriers when he saw the alsatian with its elderly owner but was not unduly worried. Then one of the Yorkies went near and Shep followed by way of protection.

Stephen said: "The dog grabbed him by the head and threw him up.

"The owner looked at me and said 'There is nothing I can do' and just walked off. He left me screaming for help and covered in blood with a dead body in front of me."

A handful of passers-by then came to the rescue by calling Stephen's home as well as reporting the incident to Sussex Police who managed to track down the owner and told him to control the animal in future. An officer photographed Shep and the body was then removed and taken to a vet's surgery for cremation to be organised - this will cost the family 150.

Stephen's stepmother Kaymarie Stephens said: "We came home and I went and got some flowers, some pink roses, and we put them where Sheppy died, on top of the blood on the grass. We went less than an hour later and someone had taken the flowers. they must have seen the blood - you couldn't miss it, there was so much. It killed me, that did. At the time I was really upset - it shows you how disrespectful some people are.

"It has been a nightmare for the family. I think we are all having nightmares but Stephen is really upset.

"Now I want people to be aware about this dog - but also thank the people who looked after Stephen."

Stephen's father Kevin commented: "A lot of people have commented on this alsatian and its attacks on their dogs. The police were very good and understanding. They ordered the alsatian owner to keep his dog muzzled. He has caused our family great grief as any loving pet owner knows."