A ROTTWEILER called Roxy escaped a death sentence but was made subject to a ‘doggie ASBO’ after biting a neighbour.

Blackburn magistrates heard the dog’s owner, Carol Elaine Crompton, had admitted to police that Roxy had bitten somebody else in December.

But they decided a ‘Dasbo’ – ordering the dog to be muzzled and on a lead outside its owners’ home – would suffice to curb its behaviour in future. It is only the second time such an order has been used in East Lancashire. Crompton, 53, of Hodgson Street, Darwen, pleaded guilty to being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control resulting in injury to Vandor Tor. She was fined £240 with £100 costs.

Magistrates said all references pointed to the fact Crompton was a responsible dog owner who had already taken steps to ensure there was no repeat.

Scott Ainge, defending, said Miss Tor was at her front door waiting when Crompton opened her door and Roxy and two other dogs ran out.

“Roxy ran towards Miss Tor barking, and before she had time to react she was bitten on her left leg just above the knee,” said Mr Ainge. “Miss Tor contacted the police because she was concerned about the safety of her grandchildren.”

Angela Rossi, defending, said Crompton had always had dogs and considered herself to be a responsible dog owner. Roxy was a three year old Rottweiler/ Border Collie cross who until the incident in December had never caused any problems.

Miss Rossi produced references from neighbours who knew and trusted Roxy.