Colm Bergin (26), with an address at Bunratty Drive, Coolock, Dublin, carried out two robberies of commuters on the morning in question, using his dog as a threat on the first victim and setting the animal upon the second victim.

Sources said the man managed to make his way to a neighbouring property where he raised the alarm.

Gardaí were alerted by emergency services to the incident at a residence in Dún Laoghaire, on Thursday afternoon.

Broadcaster Joan Larkin was left badly bruised and needing stitches after the attack in which her little dog Oscar also required urgent veterinary care.

Mia Kate Nolan was walking near her home with her mother when the dog allegedly came from behind and clamped his jaws on the little girl’s head

Nicole Morey’s devastated father, Patrick O’Donnell, fought back tears as he paid tribute to “our baby girl Nicole, a special girl”.

Ms Morey, originally from Limerick City, died after being mauled by at least one dog.

The woman was pronounced deceased at the scene by medical personnel.

The incident took place in Enniscorthy on Tuesday morning

One of the two women is understood to still be receiving treatment, and was moved to Cork University Hospital.

The dog was subsequently seized by a Waterford City and County Council dog warden.