Chihuahua survives owl attack

A Chihuahua has been attacked by an owl.

Tiny mutt Chico - who weighs just four pounds - was being taken for a late night walk by his owner George Kalomiris in the Chicago suburb of Crystal Lake, Illinois, when the predatory bird swooped.

The great horned owl tried to grab the pooch in his talons but Chico was luckily wearing a doggy coat which prevented the winged hunter from latching on to him fully.

Quick-thinking George lunged at the bird which then got caught in his pet's leash before eventually fleeing.

Relieved George said: "Good thing I had a hold of the leash. Thank God he had the coat. Otherwise he might have been hurt."

Chico suffered a minor puncture wound and some bruises and scratches and is now refusing to go out for walks at night.