A DOG walker was assaulted while attempting to protect his pet from another animal which was attacking it.

The man, who was trying to separate the two dogs, was pushed to the ground by the other walker.

Police are treating the incident, which happened on Sunday at 12.25pm in Netherwood Road, Burnley, as common assault.

The offender was white, around 30, with short hair, and was wearing glasses. The dog was medium-sized, with wiry and curly fur and was wearing a body harness.

Sgt Martyn Long, of Burnley Police, said: “The offending dog will have been off its lead in order to get close enough to attack the other dog.

“People should keep their dogs under control because when they aren’t, it can cause safety issues. In that particular area, there are a number of business premises, and this incident could have been far worse.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101.