Woman, 55, dies after she was savaged by a dog as she defended her pet from attack in Preston

A 55-YEAR-OLD woman has died after she was savaged by a dog while defending her pooch from an attack.

Police are hunting the owner of the devil dog after it mauled Sharon Jennings and her pet in Preston, Lancs.

Sharon was walking her dog when it was attacked by the other animal on a path in the Brookfield area between 6pm and 7.30pm on May 31.

She suffered bites to her hand and neck when she intervened, police said.

Sharon’s dog was treated by a vet for an ear injury, but didn’t seek medical attention at the time.

However she was rushed to Royal Preston Hospital after being found unwell at her home on Monday.

She died yesterday evening.

The cause of death has not been confirmed.

Police are looking for the dog in question as they are looking into the circumstances of what happened.

‘I’LL MISS OUR CHATS AND LAUGHS’

Investigators say they haven’t identified the dog or the owner and inquires are on going.

The dog is described as having speckled ginger and black fur and of medium height.

The owner was described as a man with thinning grey or black hair and wearing a blue fleece type jacket at the time of the incident.

Many on Facebook left heart-wrenching tributes.

One wrote: “R.I.P shadrack a truly wonderful women who would do anything for you if she could sleep tight Sharon till we meet again.”

Another added: “My counterpart, grandmas together. Im going to miss our chats and laughs sharon.

“I promise i will look after your 2 as you asked me too, always.”

‘YOU SHOULD MUZZLE YOUR DOG’

Other expressed their anger at the dog owner and urged them to go to the police.

They said: “So sad, how can this happen??? If your dog is a threat to people or other animals the muzzle it. God bless and rest in peace x”

Another fumed: “The owner of the dog should at least be doing the right thing and come forward!!!! what a shame rip thoughts to the family.”

Det Insp Chris Wellard of Preston Police said: “Our thoughts are with Sharon’s family and friends at this incredibly distressing time.

“We’re working hard to establish what happened but need anyone with information to come forward as soon as possible.

“Did you see a dog matching this description in the area or see or hear anything around the time of the incident? Please get in touch.

“I would also appeal directly to the owner of the other dog to come forward.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log number 1259 of June 5.

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