THE owners of a much-loved puppy that was mauled to death on Divis Mountain at the weekend have spoken of their heartache – and issued a warning to others. On Sunday, the owner, who does not wish to be named, took the family’s beloved Jack Russell, Sheila, for a walk along the popular Divis path. The two-year-old pup was attacked by a greyhound which wandering freely off its leash.

“Sheila was attacked yesterday morning by three greyhounds but one was off its lead, it picked her up in its mouth and just ran off,” said the distraught owner.

“There were three men with the dogs, one said he would track down the greyhound but they all got in their car and drove off.

“We took another dog with us this morning to sniff Sheila out and we found her, she was dead. We are heartbroken, she was such a lovely wee friendly dog, it’s like a death in the family.”

The St James’ family say they are disgusted by the behaviour of the owners of the greyhound who clearly showed no regard for their beloved Jack Russell.

“I can’t believe they just left, apparently the greyhound was still running about on the mountain on its own at 9pm on Sunday night. It just shows you how little they care.

“These greyhound dogs are supposed to be on leads and muzzled. This one, which was brown and white with a white nose and white paws, clearly wasn’t and now it’s wandering freely.  I think anyone who sees it should be on their guard as it’s clearly a dangerous animal.”