A 'best friend' and much loved family pet was left bloodied, mauled and needing surgery to amputate a leg after being savaged by another dog in a park.

The brutal attack happened near where children were playing leading to fears the beast could kill a toddler if left unchecked.

This was only heightened by the fact the bull-terrier cross or bull-breed mix dog's owner was pushing a baby in a pram at the time.

Buster, a 10-year-old jack russell was being taken for a walk by 16-year-old Oliver Evans in Mellows Park off Stafford Road in Wallington on Thursday September 18 at around 5.30pm when he was set upon.

The bull-breed's owner is described as a female in her 30s, with short blonde hair. The dog is described as white, with black and brown patches.

Buster belongs to Oliver's great aunt Sally Lawrence 64, who was being treated in hospital for a long-term illness.

Oliver's mother Kate, of Sandy Lane North, said: "My son came running home with Buster in his arms.

"There was blood everywhere.

"The other dog bit him on his side and back leg and left Buster with two broken bones in his leg and his shoulder is dislocated.

"Buster was on a lead and the other dog, who wasn't, approached him and started sniffing him.

"Then all of a sudden he bites him.

"The woman with the dog, just ran off.

"My son was really shocked and very upset."

Your Local Guardian:

Buster successfully underwent surgery to remove his leg on September 19.

Mrs Evans said: "Buster is a family pet, Buster is Sally's best friend. He's what keeps her going. She did everything for her him. That's her best friend in the world.

"We've been looking after him for a couple of months while my aunt is in hospital.

"That was the other horrible thing, having to phone her and tell her.

"She was very upset by it."

Police are appealing to the dog owner to come forward.

Mrs Evans said: "The owner had a small child with her and she owns a dog that does that to another animal.

"There were also other small children in that park as well as her own child.

"I suppose it was just fortunate that he attacked a dog rather than a child.

"She must have a conscience, she must come forward."

If you have any information about the dog or its owner, please contact Sutton Police station on 101 quoting ref: ZTRT00254000. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.