CAT lovers are demanding action after a bull terrier savaged two pets - killing one and badly injuring another.

They fear a child could be the next victim.

Tanya Whittaker's cat Charlie had his back right leg amputated by vets after being attacked in Back Albert Street, Burnley and was only saved by neighbours who dragged the dog away.

Three weeks earlier, the same dog savaged another pet, with elderly onlookers unable to intervene.

That cat was put down because of the extent of its injuries.

But after complaining to police, both owners say they were told the only offence was failing to keep the dog on a lead and there was nothing they could do.

Now they say the same police officer has returned to them and says she intends to take action against the dog's owner. Today PC Marie Jackson said that after extensive inquiries, a person, believed to be the keeper of the dog, had been reported with a view to prosecution.

It would now be for the Crown Prosecution Service to decide what action should be taken, she added.

A third cat was found dead in the same back street six weeks ago, also having been savaged.

Tanya, 31, of Thurston Street, says the dog is regularly seen on the street and fears for the safety of her 11-year-old daughter Ludmilla and other children in the area.

She says Charlie ran up a tree to escape, but the branch broke and he fell into the jaws of the dog.

"The vet saved his front leg which was also badly injured, otherwise he would have had to be put to sleep."

Tanya added: "We are all very upset about what has happened, but I am more scared about the danger to children."

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