Jack, who had lived equivalent to 117
human years, died yesterday when his owner Ray Bunn was taking him for a walk close to his home at Hartlepool Marina.
The other dog, described as a black Lakeland terrier and not on a lead, attacked him. The owner tried to punch him but it would not let go, the Daily Express reported.
"Jack was the oldest dog in the country, and for him to die in this horrible, violent way, as opposed to peacefully in his sleep, is a tragedy," Bunn, 70, a retired factory worker, said.
"He was bleeding heavily but still breathing. Someone had a blanket and we wrapped him up and put him in the back of the car," Bunn said.
Jack died on the way to the vets.
Last December, Jack had become a nationwide celebrity when he celebrated his 26th birthday and was declared the country's oldest canine.
A love of sirloin steak and lots of exercise were the secrets of his incredible longevity.
Jack had been part of the Bunn family for the past 16 years after he was rescued while being tied to a tree to be abandoned.
"He had his own unique character and was loved by so many people. He was very well known in the area for being the country's oldest dog. Everybody will be so upset, Bunn said.
"Police received a report from a male that his dog had been attacked this morning in Hartlepool and sadly it passed away. Cleveland Police will make enquiries into whether any offences have taken place," a police spokeswoman said.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
