CALLS have been made for an urgent change to the Dangerous Dog Act law by newly elected MP after a dog was "savagely mauled to death".

In the Commons, Anna Firth, MP for Southend West, highlighted a loophole within the Act, under Section 3, suggesting it does not recognise dog-on-dog attacks as an offence unless the dog is an “assistance dog”.

This comes after Millie, a Bichon Frisee Dog, was mauled to death in the rose garden at Chalkwell park by an out-of-control Mastiff Boxer Dog at the beginning of January, leaving owner Micheal Joannou heartbroken.

Mrs Firth has called for an urgent debate and is writing to DEFRA on the matter.

She said: “Dog-on-dog attacks is an increasing problem which needs to be addressed.

“It is not acceptable, for owners of dangerous dogs to escape prosecution, simply because their dog attacked a pet dog as opposed to an assistance dog, child or human being.

“For many, pet dogs are like members of the family often fulfilling a vital companionship role and to see a pet dog being torn apart in front of your eyes is devasting for people like Michael.

“This loophole needs to be urgently closed.”

Owner Micheal Joannou was left to carry Millie to the vet with her stomach hanging out after the attack but sadly they could not save her.

He said: “Mille was horrendously savaged to death by an unleashed large Mastiff in my local park.

“I have lost the most loving, loyal, and playful companion, walking in a park that I regarded as a safe place for all.

“I am shocked that what Millie suffered, and I witnessed is not against the law.

“The owner is not held liable and no controls are placed on the dog to class it as dangerous.

“The dog has tasted fresh blood and may be more likely to do this again to another dog or even a child.

“I am too distressed to walk in my local park anymore, but the owner and dog are free to walk wherever they choose.

“Many people have spoken to me since the incident, and I am surprised at how common these attacks occur but are often not reported.”