A police officer was wounded after being mauled by a dog in Dorset - with the animal still on the loose. The incident happened in Poole at about 10.30pm on Friday (April 4), after Dorset Police responded to reports of suspicious activity involving a vehicle in the Cardigan Road area.

Officers stopped the car nearby in Coy Pond Road, and as one officer approached on foot, a man got out and let his dog off the lead. The dog immediately turned on the officer, biting him on the legs and arm, before both the man and the animal fled the scene. The officer was left with several puncture wounds and needed treatment for his injuries. Despite a large-scale search involving armed police, drones and helicopters, the dog - described as a Staffordshire or bulldog-type - has still not been found.

Police are urging members of the public not to approach the animal if seen, and instead call 999 immediately.

A 32-year-old man from London was arrested the following day on suspicion of having a dog dangerously out of control, grievous bodily harm with intent, and driving offences.

Local resident Jake Blandon told the Bournemouth Daily Echo that police flooded the area in the aftermath.

He said: “We heard the drones and saw two of them flying around. Then a police helicopter came, so we went to have a look.

“There were about eight police cars, a few officers, a dog handler, and some unmarked vehicles. One of them looked like an armed response unit.”

Searches have continued in the Talbot Heath area, but there are still concerns the dog could pose a risk to the public.

The incident comes just a day after another major search operation — this time in Sheffield — where an XL Bully escaped during a police raid and has yet to be recovered.

Residents there have also been warned to stay alert and not approach the animal.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250047993. Alternatively, they can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.