A STARK warning has been sent out to dog lovers after an owner and their pet were attacked by two dogs.

Hullbridge Parish Council has issued the warning to dog walkers after the incident in Long Lane, Hullbridge.

The parish council says police are dealing with the incident, but it wants dog walkers to be alert following the attack.

A friend of the owner posted on Facebook to warn others of the attack which as been described as unprovoked.

The friend said dog walkers should be careful in Long Lane and she urged the owner of the animals to get in contact as soon as possible.

Halstead Gazette:

Warning - one of the posters put up by the parish council

A spokesman for the parish council said: “Beware of dogs in Long Lane. We have been directly informed that an incident happened involving two German shepherd dogs in an unprovoked attack on a dog owner and their dog.

“Although we understand this matter is being dealt with by the police, we felt that for public safety and in an area that we maintain, that we should put up posters to advise those who walk along the lane and footpath to be vigilant.

“We do not know if these dogs are still able to roam freely from wherever they reside, so please take care if using this area. Thank you.”

Cheryl Roe, Tory deputy leader of Rochford District Council, also said dog walkers and residents should be on the alert following the incident.

She said: “I agree dog owners should be responsible for their dogs and ensuring unprovoked attacks do not happen.

“It is appropriate a dog owner keeps their dog in order and under control.

“I would agree residents and dog walkers should be aware of this and I think this is not the sort of thing we want happening anywhere in our district.

“My thoughts are with the dog and its owner that were attacked at this time.

“I would like to see more laws being brought in around dogs being kept under control and I don’t understand why some people can’t keep their dogs under control.

“I think this will cause some concern in the community especially as the parish council issued the warning.”

Anyone with any information on the attack, on Saturday May 16, should contact Essex Police on 101.