Pony savagely attacked by dog at Sandwell Valley Country Park
A pony was savagely attacked by a loose dog before being saved by a brave passer-by.
The Shetland pony suffered horrific injuries following the viscous assault at Sandwell Valley Country Park.
Rocky was grazing in a paddock at Sandwell Park Farm before being set upon on Monday.
The passer-by halted the attack before alerting farm staff to the shocking incident.
The dog's owner fled the park - although efforts were made to trace the person, with West Midlands Police called to the scene.
Rocky was left with a deep wound to his face and required numerous stitches.
Deputy Sandwell Council leader Councillor Maria Crompton said: "This is absolutely devastating and poor Rocky has suffered horrific injuries.
"Dog owners should be responsible and ensure they keep their pets on leads when they are around farm animals. This includes the paddocks at the front of Sandwell Park Farm.
"It is completely irresponsible to let a dog off-lead around livestock and is against the law. We will not hesitate to involve the police in matters such as this.
"I thank the passer-by who very bravely intervened to stop the dog attacking the pony further.
"Rocky has made it through the night and we hope he is on the mend although it will be a long road to recovery."
Land in-front of Sandwell Park Farm is agricultural land and therefore covered by The Dogs [Protection of Livestock] Act 1953 meaning dogs should be kept on a lead at all times in this area.
