Anger as dog hurt in hit and run crash

A FAMILY today told of their horror after watching as their pet dog was knocked down by a car and dragged along under its wheels - before the driver made off without stopping.

Ben Hardy, 22, and Beverley James, 20, took their one-year-old Chihuahua Bailey to a vet, who was able to give emergency treatment to the little dog's legs, though he may yet have to be put down.

The couple are now appealing for the car driver to come forward.

Bailey escaped from their home in Mill Lane, Felixstowe, on Monday at about 7pm and saw a cat and chased it. Mr Hardy called him back and as the dog returned a car struck the pet.

“It was horrible - he was dragged along under the wheels and his legs were badly injured,” he said.

“The car just kept on going. Someone chased after it on a bike but they couldn't catch it, though we got some details.

“I think it is disgusting they didn't stop - you would think it would be common decency.”

The couple, who have a three-month-old baby Chase, have been landed with a bill for �700 for Bailey's treatment so far and expect this to rise if he lives.

“The ligaments in one leg cannot be repaired and it may have to be amputated. The other is not so badly damaged but may have nerve problems. We don't know if he will survive,” said Mr Hardy, who works as a plumber and gas engineer but cannot get work because of the recession.

“Because I am not claiming benefits none of the animal charities will help us, so paying for his treatment is a big problem.”

A police spokeswoman said the matter was being treated seriously and as an offence and appealed for the car driver to come forward. Anyone who saw the incident or the car is asked to call Pc Gerald Johnson on 01473 613500.

Has your pet been through an ordeal? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk