Smithfield couple seeks public's help after alleged dog attack at Deerfield Park
SMITHFIELD, RI (WJAR) — A Smithfield couple is asking for the public's help after their dog was attacked by another dog at Deerfield Park in Smithfield.
The couple claimed there was inconsistencies in the police report, and they want witness video to help get the story straight and get justice for their 10-year-old dog, Nala, who they adopted from the Potter's League eight years ago.
It happened on Saturday, March 16, around 3:00 p.m. outside of the playground area on the pavement.
Selena Mello said she and her boyfriend, Jon Mitchell, were walking their dog, Nala, passed a pit bull chained on a fence, and when they walked by a second time, the dog allegedly lunged at them.
"The pit bull lunged again at Nala and this time broke it's collar or leash and charged right after her," said Mello.
Mitchell and Mello said they both went into protective mode.
"Jon actually picked Nala up in an attempt to get the other dog off of her, but the pit bull was still latched on to her face," said Mello.
Both Mitchell and Mello were also injured in the fight.
"I have puncture wounds to my wrist, my outer arm, and my thigh," said Mello.
They claimed the other dog owner attempted to leave the scene before police arrived.
The couple rushed Nala to the emergency vet where she was taken into the ICU.
They are hoping to get justice for Nala, so this doesn't happen to any other dogs or people.
"We were right up against the playground which is terrifying to think that it can happen to a small child," said Mello.
NBC 10 contacted Smithfield Police for comment and the report but didn't hear back.
Anyone with witness video can reach out to Jon Mitchell or Selena Mello on Facebook.