Greyhound injured in attack at Wistlandpound Reservoir

A greyhound has been injured following an attack at Wistlandpound Reservoir, located on the edge of Exmoor National Park, just north of Barnstaple, on Sunday, 6 April.

The dog, known as Corporal Tilly, is the Tank Memorial Ypres Salient Mascot and an official ambassador for the National Greyhound Trust and Russet Greyhound Sanctuary. 

She was being walked by her owner and handler, Mr Chris Lock, along the reservoir’s perimeter walking trail when she was attacked by a black-and-white spaniel or spaniel cross, which Mr Lock described as a “black-and-white spaniel/cross” dog. 

According to Mr Lock, the female handler was dragged across the track by the dog as it attacked Corporal Tilly.

While attempting to protect his dog, Mr Lock told the Gazette he was also assaulted by a male accompanying the other dog.

Corporal Tilly was rushed to a veterinary centre, where she underwent emergency surgery for torn flesh, bitten ribs, and a punctured thorax. 

Mr Lock told the Gazette she received chest drains and an IV line, and the veterinary team performed repairs to her injuries. 

Corporal Tilly is now recovering at home but requires daily treatment and is on a course of painkillers, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic medication.

Mr Lock said: “To be honest, she is now a nervous wreck! The vet’s bill so far has reached over £500.”

Mr Lock has filed a report with the police concerning both the dog attack and the assault. Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that they had been notified of the incident, but there are currently no viable leads. 

A statement from the police reads: “We were notified following a report of a dog attack and subsequent assault by the owner at Wistlandpound Reservoir on the afternoon of Sunday 6 April. It was reported a dog was attacked by an out-of-control dog causing significant injury. The injured dog’s owner was then assaulted by a male with the other dog. At this time, there are no viable lines of enquiry. However, if further evidence comes to light, the incident can be re-visited. Anybody with information should contact 101 or our website quoting 50250087416.”

Mr Lock has expressed his gratitude for the support from the public, including numerous offers of donations to cover veterinary fees and assistance on behalf of Corporal Tilly.

He has also informed the Exmoor National Park Ranger Service via the National Trust and expressed his hope that no one else suffers a similar experience.