A BULLDOG about to start a new life with adoptive owners was mauled by another dog in a busy Oxford street.

The attack, in Cowley Road, which is being investigated by police, left Paddy with five puncture wounds to his face, substantial bruising and an infected jaw.

The four-year-old, whose original owner died, was due to be re-homed after being fostered by Elizabeth Mills, of the Bulldog Rescue and Re-homing Trust.

Originally very overweight with walking problems and a skin complaint, Paddy had been making goood progress and recovering well after two months of special care from Mrs Mills.

He was attacked by a bull terrier that was with a group of people outside shops near Manzil Way Gardens, she said.

Mrs Mills, of Divinity Road, said: “It was horrible. Out of nowhere this Staffordshire bull terrier launched herself at my dog. We couldn’t get her to let go. It was terrifying.

“A man was kicking her to get her off, but she just bit down more.”

Paddy was eventually freed but needed veterinary treatment for his wounds after the attack last Thursday at 7.30pm.

He is so traumatised and will have to wait quite some time before he can join his new family.

Mrs Mills, a volunteer for seven years, said: “We can’t re-home him as he is now, so we have had to put it off . The attack has cost £150 in vet bills so far and he is still being treated.

“He is walking but he won’t go anywhere near Cowley Road.”

She added: “I’m quite a bold person, not easily intimidated, but it was the most scary thing that has happened in my whole life. I was scared for my own safety.”

Oxfordshire RSPCA inspector Doug Davidson said dog attacks of this kind were not uncommon.

He said: “The number of warnings we issue to owners is in double figures each year and that is only the attacks we know about.”

He said he was investigating three similar incidents in the county and owners would be warned and face fines up to £4,000 for further attacks.

Mr Davidson added: “I would ask all responsible dog owners to keep their dog under control and have them trained.”

Earlier this month, Oxford City Council launched a consultation on plans to fine owners who do not comply when told by park wardens or council staff to put pets on a lead or keep them out of children’s play areas.