Emma O’Neill, 24, pleaded guilty to an offence of being the owner of a dog dangerously out of control, in Muxton, on November 17.

Telford Magistrates Court heard how the Akita breed bitch escaped from the house in Brands Meadow at about 5.25pm and chased the cat called Smudge before attacking it in a nearby garden.

Smudge died despite efforts by its owner Stephen Collier.

Mr Roger Blezzard, prosecuting, said: “The dog duly killed it. At the time Mr Collier was trying to save his cat by kicking out at the Akita. He was unsuccessful and when she released it, Mr Collier was bitten three or four times to his right hand and arm.

“He was taken to hospital where he was given a tetanus injection. After that the defendant was spoken to. She explained that a social worker had visited the premises.

Upsetting

“The social worker says as she was leaving, the owner opened the door and the dog escaped. It is up to the person in charge of the dog to make sure it doesn’t escape.”

Mr Blezzard also told the court a decision had been taken not to charge O’Neill with criminal damage relating to the death of the cat. He added the unemployed defendant had initially denied the offence before changing her plea to guilty.

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Miss Jodie Smith, defending, said: “This is a very upsetting case for everybody involved. It involved the death of a cat, which was extremely distressing for the owner. The defendant offers a full apology.

"Before the court you have a very responsible owner."

She said the dog had not been involved in any incidents prior to the cat's death and had not since.

Chairman of the bench Mrs Sally Themans adjourned the case for assessments. O'Neill was granted unconditional bail until December 4.