A DUBLIN postman has been been awarded €103,000 after he was left scarred for life following an attack by a German Shepherd dog.
James McCreary (53) from Rush, Co Dublin, was bitten several times as he delivered post to the St Margaret's area of Co Dublin in October 2014.
The High Court in Dublin heard Mr McCreary had previously warned the dog's owner to keep him inside but on the day of the attack a gate was left open, allowing the animal to escape.
The dog attacked Mr McCreary in the chest, then grabbed his leg.
Despite hitting and kicking the dog, Mr McCreary could not free himself and the dog owner's son had to drag the animal away.
The postman was treated in hospital for severe wounds to his leg which later became infected.
The court was told Mr McCreary was left with three permanent scars on his leg, suffers from post traumatic stress, flashbacks and anxiety and now has a fear of dogs.
Mr McCreary said he thought the dog would have killed him.
"I have no doubt if that man had not come along I would not be here today," he said.
The dog was put down shortly after the attack.
Mr McCreary sued the animal's owner, Sheelagh Morris from Mill Head, St Margaret's, Co Dublin, for negligence, breach of duty and nuisance in the ownership and management of a dog.
Liability was accepted and the case only came before the court for assessment of damages.
Mr Justice Kevin Cross said while Mr McCreary's injuries were not catastrophic they did warrant significant compensation.
In a statement afterwards, Mr McCreary's solicitor said his client was "relieved" following the decision.
