A couple whose dog was savaged by an Alsatian have complained about the lack of help after the attack.

Geoff and Ruby Cherry

Geoff and Ruby Cherry, from Wheatley, said they "went round in circles" trying to get the police, the RSPCA and South Oxfordshire District Council to act.

The Alsatian jumped a 3ft-high wire fence into the garden of their Cullum Road home and attacked their Jack Russell, Murphy.

Mrs Cherry fended the larger dog off using water from a hose. It ran off. Murphy suffered deep bite marks. He was treated by a vet and is now recovering.

Mr Cherry, 73, said he called Thame police but was told officers could not do anything unless a person had been bitten. He said the RSPCA, the council and their landlord, Soha Housing, were also unable to help.

Mr Cherry said: "I got referred back to the police, which is where I started. We phoned the RSPCA, but all they can do is issue a warning.

"Surely, there must be an organisation that can help in this situation?"