Brad Smailes heard his family pet Missy whimpering outside their house in Saddlers Drive at Gillieston Heights on Sunday.

When he went to investigate the noise he found the Missy had been torn apart by two unknown dogs.

Maitland City Council was notified about the incident on Sunday evening and a council ranger was sent to the family’s home immediately. 

A search was carried out in the local area, however efforts to find the two dogs were unsuccessful.

Following further investigations and appeals for information on social media, the council tracked down the dogs.

“Council attended a Gillieston Heights address and scanned and ­photographed two dogs at the premises for identification,” council development and environment manager David Simm said. 

“Council spoke to the owner of these dogs on Monday morning and both animals were surrendered to the RSPCA shelter to be put down.”

Missy was a loved member of the family and together the Smailes buried her on Sunday afternoon.

Mr Smailes said he was in two minds about news of the surrender.

“I don’t know if its necessarily the right action, I can imagine how those people feel losing two of their dogs,” he said.

“We lost one and we feel terrible, they lose two.

“But I’m sure I wouldn’t want it to be one of my kids, it is a safety issue.”

Following the tragic incident ­council has reminded residents about the responsibilities of pet ownership.

“It’s an important reminder for all pet owners that they have a responsibility to manage and control their animals at all times so that we avoid similar unfortunate circumstances,” Mr Simm said.

“If residents witness an aggressive animal in their neighbourhood they should contact council so that the ­matter can be investigated further.”

Phone Maitland City Council on 4934 9700.