Police in Poole are appealing for the public’s help by issuing two images of the dogs involved.

The incident happened on the morning of Tuesday 2 November. The victim returned to her home in Monkton Crescent and was unloading her shopping when two dogs ran through the open back door, picked up her pet cat and ran back out to the end of her driveway.

The victim screamed and she and her husband followed the dogs. She attempted to grab hold of the dogs to open their mouths but was unsuccessful.

The victim’s husband grabbed hold of the leather harnesses the dogs were wearing, while she filled a bucket with water and threw it over the dogs. This caused them to let go of the cat.

The dogs’ owner appeared and called for them.The victim informed him of the incident, but he appeared unconcerned.

During the incident the victim was headbutted by one of the dogs, causing a black eye. She also sustained multiple bites and was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment.

Very sadly, the cat died from the injuries it sustained.

The owner of the dogs is described as white, around five feet nine inches tall, of slim build, aged in his 40s and with a full head of short mousey-coloured hair.

PC Jennie Sykes-Martin, of Dorset Police, said: “This was a very distressing incident for the victim and her husband, which unfortunately not only caused her injury but resulted in the death of their much-loved cat.

“As part of my appeal I am issuing images of the two dogs involved in the hope that someone recognises them from the distinctive leather harnesses they are wearing.

“I am appealing to anyone who knows the owner of these dogs to please contact Dorset Police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk/do-it-online/ or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210177628. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.