The family of a pensioner mauled by two rottweilers as he tried to save his own dog thought he would die, a court heard.

Doctors were forced to amputate Victor Franklin’s left leg, right arm and left middle finger after he was attacked in Lewes Close in Bognor.

The 77-year-old fought for his life in hospital after getting between the dogs and his own pet spaniel.

Police marksmen shot both rottweilers dead following the horrific attack on August 18 last year.

Matthew Roberts, 30, of no fixed address and Chloe Taylor, 27, of Hastings Close, Bognor, appeared at Worthing Magistrates Court yesterday charged with being the owners of dangerously out-of-control dogs who caused injury to Mr Franklin.

Neither entered a plea.

Prosecutor Megan Attree told the court the couple were the owners of the two black rottweilers who attacked Mr Franklin.

"Mr Franklin was walking his dog when two large rottweilers ran towards him to attack his dog," Ms Attree said.

Vic Franklin had his left leg, right arm and left middle finger amputated after the attackVic Franklin had his left leg, right arm and left middle finger amputated after the attack (Image: Family handout)

"He tried to kick them away and they savagely attacked him.

"The injuries he suffered left him shredded.

"This was a savage, prolonged attack of ten minutes before a neighbour fended them off with a spirit level.

"His family thought he was going to die.”

Mr Franklin was a proud man who was very active in the lives of his grandchildren, Ms Attree said.

"He has suffered a loss of dignity and his injuries have affected his whole family."

District Judge Amanda Kelly sent the case to Crown Court.

"This case is simply far too serious to be dealt with in Magistrates Court,” she said.

Police at the scene last yearPolice at the scene last year (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

"That man was just out walking his dog and suffered catastrophic, life-changing injuries.”

After recovering from four operations to save his life, the pensioner paid tribute to emergency services who saved his life.

“Simply put, I wouldn’t be here without the assistance of our emergency service workers,” Mr Franklin said.

“From the first responders including police and paramedics, to the air ambulance crew and the selfless staff at Royal Sussex County Hospital, I am eternally grateful.”

Matthew Roberts and Chloe Taylor will appear in court again next month.

Judge Kelly released both on unconditional bail.