The owner of a dog that attacked a young girl in Matapihi pleaded for his animal's life in Tauranga District Court.
Colin Borell appeared in court yesterday for sentencing for owning a dog that attacked a person and a pet.
On May 31, Borell's American pitbull terrier, Rumble, attacked a 15-year-old girl and her fox terrier.
Community magistrate Jack Best called the attack "aggressive and unprovoked". He said Rumble attacked the girl's dog and when she moved to protect it, Rumble attacked her and bit her several times.
Borell was found guilty on October 22 and at that stage was asked to present sentencing submissions.