A dog was stabbed after its owner was attacked with a knife in a random attack on the street.

The victim was walking the dog at around 7pm yesterday on grassland next to Epping Forest College in Borders Lane, Debden, when he was approached by a man who tried to enagage in conversation.

He then attempted to stab the victim with a kitchen knife.

The victim was not injured but his dog, a Rottweiler, suffered a stab wound to the chest.

The suspect then ran off before jumping over a fence and turning right into Colson Road.

A full search of the area was carried out with the assistance of a police helicopter but the attacker was not found.

The animal was rushed to a vets for treatment and is currently in a stable condition.

The attacker is described as white, aged 17 to 22, 6ft 3ins to 6ft 5ins, of athletic/muscular build, with short hair, and clean shaven.

He was wearing a grey tracksuit top, shorts, and trainers and also carried a dark bag which was over his left shoulder.

The knife is described as a kitchen knife with a five to seven inch blade and a black handle. 

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to contact Detective Inspector Paul Tindall on 101 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.