AN ANIMAL lover has launched a heartfelt plea to help pay for a dog’s intensive care treatments after the pet suffered a horror attack by two other dogs.

Lynn Crump, 63, said she was “devastated” after hearing that her friend and colleague Julie Hayward’s springer spaniel was grabbed by the neck and left with one ear on Friday.

She has now set up a fundraising page in a bid to help Julie and her partner Gary pay for vet fees.

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, Layla the springer spaniel has spent the weekend in intensive care following a brutal attack by two dogs thought to be Staffordshire bull terriers.

The beloved 12-year-old pet had her head ripped open following the savage incident at Edward Avenue, Bishopstoke, around 5pm, when they usually go for a daily walk.

While trying to protect her, Julie, 44, was left was gashes and cuts to her hands and wrists.

She screamed and shouted for help with neighbours eventually getting Layla safely and away from her two attackers.

Having been friends for several years with owner Julie when they met as nurses at Avalon House in Winchester, Lynn decided that something must be done to help when she saw the news on the Daily Echo Facebook page.

Owner of cat Cleo and previous horse owner Lynn, from Winchester, said: “Julie is a good friend of mine and I was absolutely devastated when I saw the news.

“I hope these dogs are caught and prosecuted as now Layla is in intensive care, which has cost over £2,000.”

After the incident, Julie and Layla were taken to a nearby home before Julie’s partner of seven years, Gary, rushed Layla to a vet and then took Julie to hospital.

Layla is expected to stay at the vets for the next week with the couple devastated they cannot visit her due to the coronavirus lockdown.

Lynn added: “My aim is to raise £5,000 as the price will escalate, and I hope they get compensation too.

“I love animals and it’s very sad and horrible, and now others are worried about their pets. Something must be done.”

Over £500 has been raised by the nurse just hours after setting up the online fundraising page on Monday morning.

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information regarding the incident to ring 101 quoting reference 44200153831.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/fundinglayla.