A puppy suffered horrific injuries during a traumatising attack by a larger dog during a walk on the beach.
The black Schnauzer was "bleeding badly and crying" after being mauled by an American Staffordshire Bull Terrier that was off its lead, it has been claimed.
The incident, on Bronte Beach in Sydney, Australia, around 7.15pm on Monday, also saw the smaller dog's owner injured as she tried to step in, her friend has said.
Three people had to help to free the severely injured pet and it was left in need of urgent medical treatment.
Graphic images show how a large chunk of its skin on one side had been ripped off.
The pal claims the owner of the aggressor, who was also with a Rottweiler, fled the scene with his two dogs.
She said her friend is "bruised and has wounds on her face and hand", in a post on Facebook.
Waverley Council is reported to be seeking the owner of the Staffy dog.
A spokesperson told Yahoo News Australia : "Waverley Council is appealing for information from anyone who may have witnessed a dog attack.
"The owner of the staffy left the scene and is yet to be identified.
"He is described as being around 198cm tall with a muscular/athletic build. His dog was reportedly wearing a collar with spikes.
"Rangers have spoken to the owner of the Schnauzer and investigations are ongoing."
In recent years, there have been calls for American Staffies to be banned in Australia, due to the frequency of attacks.
The council has confirmed dogs are permitted to be off their lead in Bronte Park Gully between 3pm and 10am only.
But they are not permitted on the beach or within 10 metres of a children's play area.
Staffy dogs are also not illegal in the UK, not one of the four breeds listed on the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
Though, like in Australia, there have been calls for the dangerous dog laws to be reviewed.
