'XL Bully' attack leaves man in hospital with 'serious injuries' as two arrested

02 November 2023 , 11:39

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A man suffered 'serious injuries' after being attacked by a dog in Ellgreave Street in Middleport, Stoke-on-Trent (Image: Google)

A man has been taken to the hospital after suffering "serious injuries" following an attack by a dog believed to be an XL Bully.

Police rushed to Ellgreave Street in Middleport, Stoke-on-Trent, last night following reports of a dog attack where members of the public had intervened. A man and a woman were arrested after the victim suffered "serious arm injuries".

Staffordshire Police said the incident unfolded at around 9pm, adding that members of the public had stepped in as a dog - thought to be an XL Bully - had attacked two other dogs. Officers said two dogs were seized and taken to "secure kennels".

In addition, a 22-year-old woman from Stoke-on-Trent, and a 29-year-old man of no fixed address, have been arrested on suspicion of owning a dog that is dangerously out of control. The two arrested are believed to remain in custody today as an investigation into the incident continues, reports Stoke-on-Trent Live. Officers are today appealing for witnesses to come forward.

A spokesperson for the force said: "We were called to Ellgreave Street following reports of a dog attack. Members of the public tried to intervene as a dog, believed to be an XL Bully, attacked two other dogs.

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"A man suffered serious arm injuries and has been taken to hospital. Two dogs have been seized by officers and taken to secure kennels." Witnesses are asked to call 101 and quote incident 697 of November 1. Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Last month, it emerged that XL Bully dogs have carried out half of the fatal dog attacks in the UK since the pandemic. At least 23 people have been killed by dogs in the last three years and American XL Bullies, or similar breeds, were suspected to be involved in 12 of the attacks.

Rishi Sunak has said a ban on XL Bullies will become law by the end of the year after a spate of attacks around the country. The Prime Minister said: "These American XL bully dogs are a danger to our communities and we are urgently working on ways to stop these attacks and to protect the public."

Dave Knapper