A YORKSHIRE terrier had to have his left ear amputated and was bitten badly on his neck by two out of control dogs in an attack where even his owner feared for their safety.

The incident involving Yorkshire terrier Skamp was investigated by the Vale council's Trading Standards and Dog Warden service and went before Cardiff Magistrates' Court earlier this month.

The investigation found that Skamp was attacked by two plumber terriers at Pendoylan Close, Barry. During the attack Skamp was badly injured and his owner was left very shaken by the experience.

Owner of the plumber terriers, Christopher Selby, 51, of Michaelston Close, Barry pleaded guilty to two offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 at Cardiff Magistrates Court on Thursday, October 9.

The court fined Selby £235, costs of £100 and compensation of £331.34 to Skamp’s owner.

The Magistrates also ordered a Contingent Destruction Order in relation to the two dogs subject to the charges. This means that the dogs may be put down if it is found that they are not being kept on a lead and muzzled when out in public.

Leader of Vale of Glamorgan Council Neil Moore said: “Unfortunately it is becoming common place to hear in the news about dangerous dogs.

"We were lucky in this instance that no person was injured or hurt, however Skamp has been left seriously physically injured and his owner was left emotionally scarred by this incident.”

Principal Trading Standards Officer,Christina Roberts-Kinsey, added: “The order made by the magistrates court expresses the seriousness of the offence and Selby was warned that should the dogs in question be found to be in a public place whilst not on a lead and muzzle they would be destroyed.”