THE owners of a killer dog which savaged a tiny Chihuahua-cross have come forward following an appeal for information.

Bournemouth council's dog warden has now given advice and it is understood the Mastiff will be muzzled at all times when in public.

The dog grabbed Angie Heath's pet, Marley, by the head during a walk in Kings Park. The smaller dog died instantly.

Angie, of Colville Close, Boscombe, told how the couple just walked away with their dog, leaving her to carry little Marley's body home alone.

Since then Angie has been inundated with offers of other dogs and she said she has had time to reflect on the incident, which took place on Saturday July 15.

She told the Daily Echo: "The more I think about it, the more I believe it was just an accident.

"The bigger dog didn't growl or shake Marley about - he just grabbed him, then immediately dropped him. Perhaps he made him jump when he walked up behind him.

"I am satisfied if the dog is going to be muzzled all the time in public but I hope they don't have any children in the house because something like this could happen again."

A spokesman for Bournemouth council said: "The dog owner has come forward and our warden is now in contact with the owner."