Jack Russell terrier sacrifices life to save family in pit bull attack

Lance Martin, Herald Senior Staff Writer

HALIFAX - A Jack Russell terrier is being credited for sacrificing its life to save its owners from a pit bull attack last week, according to the Halifax County Sheriff's Office.

Lt. Bobby Martin said the attack occurred after three pit bulls got loose in the town of Halifax near Super Saver off U.S. Highway 301.

Lee Ross's wife and child were outside when the three dogs got loose. “The Jack Russell terrier was trying to keep the pit bulls away from the mother and child,” Martin said. “The dog distracted them long enough for the people to get in the house.”

The pit bulls then proceeded to maul and kill the Jack Russell, which was a family pet of four years, Martin said.

The pit bulls have been deemed dangerous and Animal Control has ordered the owner of the dogs, whose name was not immediately available, to build a suitable pen for them and keep them leashed and muzzled when outside.

Martin said the loss of the family pet has devastated the Ross family. “The child was distraught because of what it witnessed, the pit bulls growling and snarling, and how close they were getting to the wife and child.”