Police have appealed for information after a guide dog was kicked and left bruised and subdued.
The incident happened on Monday 20 September at around 2pm on New George Street near Drakes Circus.
The guide dog’s registered-blind and disabled owner Nicholas Bateman said he heard his ‘lifeline’ companion Angus, aged 4, yelp – and was told by a witness that a youth had dealt the canine a blow. Angus was in his working harness at the time.
A group of teenagers fled towards the St Andrew’s Cross roundabout, chased by a member of the public who was unable to catch them.
Police have said they would like to find both helpful members of the public and are urging them, and any other witnesses to come forward.
Mr Bateman, 54, who lives in the Derriford area of the city and has been aided by his four-legged friend for nearly two years, said: “Although Angus has no lasting injuries, he does have some soreness and bruising.
“My main concern is that Angus has not been himself, he is somewhat subdued and has lost some of his confidence.
“Quite simply, he is my world.
“Almost six years ago, I was struck down with an aggressive form of autoimmune disease [SLE] resulting in my sight loss.
“When Angus came into my life, I was able to regain my independence and some quality of life. Angus is my lifeline.”
Police Constable Andrew Rowe added: “I am very keen to identify and speak to both members of the public who assisted during this event.
“Also, in view of the fact that Plymouth city centre would have been reasonably busy at that time of the day, I would also like to hear from any other members of the public who may have witnessed this incident, or have any information which may assist my investigation.”
Call police with information on 101, or email 101@dc.police.uk, quoting crime reference CR/083052/21.
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