THE owners of a Jack Russell horrifically injured in a gang attack in Brentwood have thanked the public for their support.

Fergy and his owner Dariusz Asmus were attacked by a gang of six men on November 1, who unleashed their dog on Fergy, causing serious neck injuries and kicking Mr Asmus when he tried to intervene.

His daughter Paulina shared the horrific images of Fergy's injuries in a Facebook post on Friday, which has now been shared nearly 50,000 times.

The family have now thanked friends and members of the public for their support and said Fergy is recovering slowly at home after being treated for neck wounds from where he was bitten.

Ms Asmus said: "Fergy managed to get outside today and was actually really happy about it! Don’t get me wrong he’s had his down moments.

His neck is very sore, and it looks as though some of the muscles have been damaged, it was clear he was in some pain when I changed his dressings. He’s getting more scared than usual at unexpected noises and didn’t eat for the first day.

"However, he feels comfortable and safe at home. His energy levels are quite up and down as he’s been sleeping a lot, recovering. He actually managed to jump up at me to say hello when I arrived home from uni!

"We are giving him plenty of cuddles and kisses from everyone and he is being incredibly spoilt, treats all round! I’ve been cooking him food as he doesn’t seem to have an appetite for his usual dog food, it’s too difficult to bite through. We hope he recovers fully soon.

"Thank you to everyone for the support, I speak on behalf of my whole family (Ferdy included) when I say we are so grateful for all the help and support offered, we wish we could thank you all individually."

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We were called around 8.30pm on Thursday, November 1 with reports of an assault on a man in Brentwood.

“Thankfully, the victim was not seriously injured, however the dog sustained substantial injuries.”

Anyone who witnessed or has information on the incident should contact Braintree Community Policing Team on 101 quoting reference 42/159814/18, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.