PETS have been photographed by RSPCA and police officers to help stop an “epidemic” of dog attacks in Oxford.

Animal welfare officers have joined Pcs and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) on patrols around Blackbird Leys, after a string of incidents in which youths goaded their dogs to attack and kill cats.

The attacks, which have continued for more than 18 months, have worried the RSPCA and police so much they have begun asking dog owners if they can photograph their pets in order to build up a database of bull terriers and lurchers on the estate.

The scheme is the first of its kind in the UK and up to 10 dogs have already been photographed.

Doug Davidson, RSPCA inspector for Oxfordshire, said: “There have been several incidents where it appears young men with hoodies have goaded their dogs to attack cats.

“You have to feel angry and ashamed to be part of the same human race as these people. These are activities that do not belong in the 21st century. It is barbaric to take a domestic animal and throw it to dogs.”

Recently a tabby was stolen and killed when it was thrown to four dogs. Another kitten was poked with sticks before being stolen.

The RSPCA hopes the photographic database will lead them to owners if they are given descriptions of dogs involved in attacks.

Anyone with information about dog attacks should call Thames Valley Police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ghmailton@oxfordmail.co.uk