The father of three says he worries that dogs that attack other pets are only a small step away from biting children, with possible tragic consequences.

Now the internet expert is going to launch a website to highlight all Hartlepool's dog attacks and give a voice to responsible pet owners who worry for their dogs' and children's safety.

Malcolm Riley's German shepherd, Ky, was viciously bitten as they walked down a quiet back alley.

Ky's front right leg was badly damaged and vets are still uncertain how well it will heal.

Malcolm, a security worker who used to train dogs, has been planning the website for several years after seeing scores of irresponsible pet owners leaving their dogs to roam off the leash.

And he says the attack at 9.30pm on Thursday, May 1, in a back alley between Stephen Street and Suggitt Street, gave him the push he needed to get the website up and running.

The 37-year-old, of Suggitt Street, said: "An English bull terrier ran straight for us and was biting at Ky's neck and limbs.

"I tried to get it off but there was no stopping it.

"I managed to stop it biting Ky's neck because that could have been fatal, but it ripped into the right front leg instead and I think the whole neighbourhood heard the cries.

"Ky is not an aggressive dog. She is fully trained as a security dog to police levels and wouldn't hurt anyone.

"Saying that, I still keep her on a lead around people and other dogs because despite being a part of my family she is still a dog, and no dog can be fully trusted.

"I worry about dogs that attack other dogs because children often play around here and who's to say they won't be bitten?"

A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said the three young owners of the terrier were spoken to by police about the incident.

Mr Riley now wants dog owners who have had their dogs attacked, or witnessed other dogs being attacked, to contact him on 07522 437455 and help him record the incidents.