Families in part of Watford feel afraid to let children or pets outside as police continue to search for a “dangerous” dog.
Herts Police have been back out in the Leavesden Green area investigating today (October 22) after confirming that there was a further report of a cat being killed in Ross Crescent on Saturday (October 19).
It came after the pet, believed to be a black and white Akita, was supposed to have been rehomed following another cat being mauled to death in Harris Road on September 8.
“Extensive enquiries” are underway to locate it and the owner but, in the meantime, those with pets and children living nearby fear for their safety.
The owner of the cat killed in September – who did not want to be identified - said she is “really worried”, particularly for local children heading to and from nearby schools.
police initially said it had been rehomed.
“It’s a concern,” she said, adding that she thinks the dog has been in the area “four or five times since“I feel too scared to let my children to play outside."
Stanborough ward councillor Tim Williams said: “Having this dangerous dog regularly on the loose in the Leavesden Green area is creating much anxiety for all residents."
“Residents in the area are understandably afraid to let their pets outside," he added.
“I feel dreadfully sorry for those directly affected by this owner and dog’s actions, it’s a horrendous situation.”
In a message to the public today, Herts Police said that the dog is not believed to be in the area at the current time.
They added that officers have conducted enquiries including interviewing a suspect, taking witness accounts, and carrying out search warrants to try and trace the pet and owner.
- Search for Watford dangerous dog as it 'kills another cat'
- North Watford 'dangerous dog' rehomed amid poster campaign
- Loose dog gets into home and 'massacres' cat inside
The force has also worked with police in other areas and the RSPCA.
Anyone who sees the dog is asked not to approach it and instead call 999 immediately.
The same dog is understood to have attacked another dog in Watford, causing puncture wounds that required treatment from vets, on August 2.
Rumours have circulated that it has also bitten a person, but police have apparently received no reports of this.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here