A MAN whose dog severed an artery while paddling in a park stream has slammed those who litter and fly-tip the area, and welcomed news a community clean-up is to take place this weekend.

Pete Greasley’s dog, Samson, needed an emergency operation after a broken bottle slashed his leg open while playing in shallow water in the park next to St Woolos Cemetery.

Sian Huggins, a dog-walker from Waggy Track who was looking after Samson when the incident occurred on Tuesday realised something was wrong when Samson, who usually jumps about in the water, came out limping.

“There were big puddles of blood, and it was gushing out of him”, Ms Huggins said.

Ms Huggins called Mr Greasley and rushed Samson to a local vet who operated on Samson right away.

Fortunately, Samson will make a full recovery, but Mr Greasley and Ms Huggins are furious that dangerous items like broken glass are being thrown into the stream – a popular place for dog-walkers and families.

“It’s ridiculous, and I’m appalled people can be so irresponsible,” said Mr Greasley.

“It could have been a child.

“I’ve got two grandchildren and I’ve told them now never to play in that stream.”

Mr Greasley said the area had become increasingly troubled people dumping litter.

“I’ve watched the area over the last year, and there’s more and more stuff being left there”, he said.

“There are even boilers thrown there, and huge amounts of garbage.”

While Samson was being operated on, Ms Huggins’ friend, Fleur Buchanan - who was there when Samson was injured - returned to the woods to find what had cut him.

She found a jagged piece of a glass bottle sticking out of the water, still covered in Samson’s blood.

Ms Buchanan said the situation had prompted her to take action and has organised a clean-up operation to take place in the area today.

Samson is now recovering at home with Mr Greasley, who praised Ms Huggins for helping to save Samson’s life.

“Sian was outstanding – she’s brilliant at what she does”, Mr Greasley said.

“She couldn’t have done anything better. Her quick actions saved him.”

Anyone wishing to join in the community clean-up today is welcome to join in.

Participants should meet at the park gates off Risca Road, at 2pm.

They are asked to wear suitable clothing, including gloves.