Devastated dog owner renews appeal to find woman after pet dies in husky attack
Shona West, the owner of the dog that died after being attacked by a husky, is renewing her appeal for the woman to come forward and apologise for her pet's death.
A devastated dog owner has renewed her appeal to identify the woman whose husky mauled her beloved pet to death.
Shona West, 64, from Stockbridge, was away when five-year old Diggory was attacked on the Goldenacre cycle path in Warriston.
Her friend Rose was walking Diggory underneath the bridge marked Warriston Gardens when she encountered a woman with a pale-coloured husky.
Shona said the dogs initially were curious of each other sniffing and touching noses, then with no indication of the husky being aggressive, it snapped and grabbed Diggory by the neck and pulled him from the ground.
Shona said that Rose was left with no choice but to approach the danger, and release poor “Diggs” from the husky’s jaw.
“There was a really nice guy who got hold of Diggs and was trying to soothe him, because you know, Rose was pretty shocked at the time,” Shona said.
Diggory was taken to a vet, where an initial examination found a small puncture wound and he was given medication, however to Shona’s despair, his condition began to deteriorate over the following days.
After being taken to several veterinary practices, Diggory was eventually treated at the Dick Vet, where vets found increased bruising and necrotic skin.
Shona said the vets believe the force of the attack may have damaged the blood supply to his skin, causing it to die.
Despite undergoing surgery and receiving treatment, Diggory’s condition continued to worsen and Shona was faced with the decision to have him put to sleep on September 9.
She said: “He was my everything. I love that dog more than anything.”
Shona has since contacted the police repeatedly and the dog warden in an attempt to identify the woman, but says she has not received a further update despite providing additional information.
“If it was a child that had been killed it would be international news and authorities would be doing everything to locate the dog and owner, but because it’s a dog the authorities don’t give it any priority,” she added.
She has also put up posters around Starbank Park and along the cycle path between Hildon Street and Ferry Road, and plans to put up more around Victoria Park.
The woman is believed to be in her 70s, with grey hair and a slim build. The husky was described as being pale rather than the more recognisable black and white colouring.
Several people have contacted Shona with possible sightings, but none have so far led to the woman being identified.
She said: “I just can’t believe that this person doesn't know about it. Just do the honourable thing and say, ‘I didn’t realise it was so bad’.
“Nothing’s going to bring him back, but I want an apology.”
Shona also wants the woman to understand the impact Diggory’s death has had on her and those around her, including the financial and emotional consequences.
Shona is now appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident, recognises the description or knows a pale husky in the area to come forward and help her get closure.
She said: “I would just like some help from somebody that is in some kind of position where we can do something.”
Anyone with information is asked to get in contact with the relevant authorities or get in touch with Shona.
Police Scotland said enquiries are ongoing.