A dog facing death for attacking an 11 year-old boy has been saved after more than 30 witnesses stood up for its 'good character' in court.
Tyson the Staffordshire terrier was given a reprieve after a 260-name petition and evidence of Facebook campaign named "Save Tyson" were presented to magistrates.
The pet left the youngster with a three inch wound on his leg when he snapped at him outside a pub.
The lad, who had been riding his scooter, remained on crutches for three days after the incident in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset.
Gareth Giddings, prosecuting, said the boy was now nervous of dogs and worried he could be bitten again.
Tyson, aged nine, was facing destruction until magistrates heard the attack was out of character and had never hurt anyone before.
But North Somerset Magistrates' Court was told that the dog was normally a placid, affectionate and friendly animal who was good with young children.
Emma Haley, defending, said: "Mr Evans lives alone and Tyson is his sole companion."
His owner Daniel Evans, 53, admitted being in charge of a dog which was dangerously out of control in a public place under the Dangerous Dog Act.
Magistrates ordered him to pay £150 in compensation to the boy, costs of £85 and a victim surcharge of £60.
It was also ordered that Tyson was kept under control at all times and that he should wear a muzzle and be kept on a lead when outside of the house.
Evans was warned that any repeat offence would result in the dog being put down.
