Last Thursday, a two-dog attack on the sweet-natured Kurri Kurri favourite devastated many in the town.

His wounds were horrific, but have proved no match for George’s fighting spirit.

“He’s doing a lot better than we expected because he’s a wonderful patient,” owner Pam Walterback said.

“He likes the attention - and certainly the food.”

Cessnock City Council officers have investigated the matter and the dogs have been euthanised in accordance with the Companion Animals Act 1998.

From the moment George arrived in Mrs Walterback’s life he held a special place in her heart.

“His life has been a bit tough,” she said.

“He was given to me seven years ago because I loved riding, I did it a lot when I was younger and got back into it a few years ago.

“He’s just a very gentle horse and deserves a good life.”

His love of food never wavered – even as the vet worked on him, he was snacking on dried bread.

Now he’s resting, and eating, on a property at Ellalong.

“He will recover,” Mrs Walterback said. “Give him two months and there will probably be no sign of those injuries.”

At this stage, despite his wounds starting to heal, it seems his days at the Kurri field where he gained his fame are over.

Following her ordeal, Mrs Walterback is urging dog owners to ensure their animals are securely fenced.

“Accidents do happen but you just have to be very aware,” she said.

“I couldn’t say anything bad about the dog owners – they’ve been really good and it’s just been a very distressing time for everybody.”

From the wave of public support, to the quality of vet care, Mrs Walterback was amazed by how much people helped her.

“It gives you a real boost in life to know that people really do care,” she said.

Regardless of his recent trauma, George’s future is looking cheery.

He will enjoy his days alongside other retired horses, with plenty of green grass to keep his stomach full.