A MAN has been banned from keeping dogs for ten years after his terrier-type dog savaged the guide dog of a blind woman. John-Jo Madden, 18, from Gospel Oak, was found guilty of possession of a dangerous dog at Hendon Magistrates Court after the vicious

A MAN has been banned from keeping dogs for ten years after his terrier-type dog savaged the guide dog of a blind woman.

John-Jo Madden, 18, from Gospel Oak, was found guilty of possession of a dangerous dog at Hendon Magistrates' Court after the vicious attack at Cricklewood railway station last October.

The 57-year-old blind woman was walking through the station with her Labrador Neela when Mr Madden's dog attacked, leaving the guide dog with severe puncture wounds to her neck and requiring emergency veterinary treatment.

The owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, said in a statement read to the court: 'To be unable to see the assault was horrific and terrifying. What was to become of Neela, my faithful sighted guide and what of myself and my independence? In seconds both were being snapped away from me.

'She was being attacked and suffering tremendous pain and not knowing why. It was a period of total isolation and fear.'

The British Transport Police investigated the case and Madden was arrested and charged following a public appeal.

He pleaded guilty to the offence and was handed the ban, a three month prison sentence, suspended for two years, ordered to undertake 150 hours of unpaid work and pay �1,200 in compensation to the Guide Dogs Association and a further �500 to the owner of the guide dog.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Gerry Griffin from British Transport Police said: "The incident clearly illustrates the importance of making sure that dogs are under the control of their owners at all times - particularly in public places such as railway stations.

"I would like to thank the public for all of the information that was provided after the appeal, while Neela's owner wishes to thank everyone who has sent messages of support during what has been a very distressing time for her."

Chris Dyson, Guide Dogs for the Blind Association spokesman, said: "We appeal to all pet dog owners: if you think there is any chance that your dog will be aggressive towards other dogs, or humans, please keep it on a lead and muzzled if necessary.