A NEW investigation has been launched after another dog-on-dog attack in York.

This is the third attack allegedly by a white American bulldog in the city in less than 18 months, but City of York Council would not say whether the animal thought to be responsible for the first two incidents was also believed to be responsible for the third.

The latest attack, apparently witnessed by children in a nearby house, happened on Sunday at about 9.55pm in Moorcroft Road, Woodthorpe. A passer-by said it involved a white American bulldog tied up outside a shop, and a Jack Russell which was passing.

According to the witness, the bulldog grabbed the smaller animal by its neck and head, and began "ragging it around until it stopped screeching and went floppy".

The passer-by, who asked not to be named, said: "Both owners tried to stop the attack but the bulldog was locked on. A shop keeper then came out with a shopping basket to try and wedge between the dogs.

"The attack lasted about ten minutes before the bigger dog let go for a brief second and the smaller dog was quickly pulled to safety. Then the bulldog was rushed home and the owner returned to apologise and admitted they knew their dog was aggressive around other dogs."

Last October, The Press reported on an attack in Spurriergate by a large white dog on Wendy, a rescue dog owned by an Asperger's sufferer who visited York. Wendy underwent a series of operations, and the incident was left for investigation by the council.

In November, The Press reported how Carolyn Rennie's crossbreed terrier Jess was attacked by a large white dog, believed to be an American bulldog, pulled free from its lead in Blossom Street on New Year's Eve 2014. Jess survived, but had to undergo at least four operations, and the investigation was left with the council.

The council would not say whether the investigations into those incidents remained open, claiming that to comment could jeopardise investigations.

However Tanya Lyon, community safety manager for the council, said: "As with any investigation, we cannot give information on it or any other cases which may appear to have similarities, as this could jeopardise the investigation or future legal proceedings.

"Anyone with concerns about their dog’s behaviour should consult a vet or the RSPCA, and be mindful that it is an owner’s responsibility to control their animal."