Attack dog put down (From Stroud News and Journal)

Attack dog put down

SCOOBY a German Shepherd family pet was put down by his upset owners after it attacked a postman.

Owner Martin Bishop took the drastic action to put the family pet to sleep after an attack on February 4 left postie Colin Street with hand, leg and arm injuries.

Bishop, 43, who pleaded guilty to having a dog dangerously out of control, was told by Stroud magistrates on Friday he would have to pay £50 compensation to Mr Street but that his actions in dealing with Scooby were praised.

"You behaved responsibly in your action" said chairman of magistrates Eleanor Taylor.

Mr David Scott, defending, said his client had decided to end Scooby's life because of the guilt he would feel if the dog attacked someone else.

"He said if the dog was to remain and something else was to happen he could not bear it" he said.

"He has taken a very responsible and courageous action in not waiting for the court to impose an order for the dog's destruction".

The court heard how Mr Street, who had been bitten before by Scooby, had got into the habit of rattling the gate at the Bishop's address in Mason Road, Stroud, to warn of his approach.

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