‘XL Bully-type’ dog dragged woman off sofa through home scarring her for life

XL Bully-type Dog Drags Woman Off Sofa, Inflicting Life-Long Scars

A terrifying incident involving an XL bully-type dog left a woman scarred for life after the powerful canine clamped onto her foot and dragged her several metres through her home. Elaine Hughes endured excruciating pain as the American bulldog, named Patch, bit into her foot and pulled her from the sofa onto the floor. Despite desperate attempts by Iain Martin, who was responsible for the dog on behalf of a jailed friend, the attack continued relentlessly.

During the incident at 24 Catmoor Crescent, Scone, on 4th March 2023, Martin witnessed Patch suddenly turn aggressive towards Ms Hughes, biting her foot and pulling her with incredible force. Despite Martin’s efforts to make the dog release its grip, Patch dragged Ms Hughes towards the kitchen, causing immense agony. Ms Hughes managed to free her foot from her slipper when the dog slightly loosened its grip, allowing Patch to walk off with the slipper in its mouth.

The severity of the attack resulted in Ms Hughes sustaining significant injuries to her right foot, including swelling, bruising, and two deep puncture wounds. As a result of the attack, she now bears noticeable scarring on her foot, experiences ongoing pain, and has a loss of sensation. The dog control officer at Perth and Kinross Council recommended that the dog be put down due to its dangerous nature.

In court, Martin, aged 38, admitted to being in charge of a dog that was dangerously out of control and causing severe harm to Ms Hughes. The court heard testimonies describing Patch as an XL bully or an American pitbull, aged one or two years old at the time of the attack. Martin, who has a previous conviction for dangerous driving, admitted to the charges and is awaiting sentencing pending social work reports.

The court revealed that the dog, currently held in kennels since the incident, is deemed too dangerous to be rehomed. While Martin awaits his sentence, including potential destruction and disqualification orders, the court highlighted the seriousness of the offence.

Insights:
This distressing incident sheds light on the importance of responsible pet ownership and the potential dangers associated with owning powerful dog breeds. It serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of negligence when handling such animals. The physical and emotional impact on the victim underscores the need for strict laws and regulations concerning dog ownership, especially with breeds known for their strength and potential for aggression.

Summary:
A woman’s life was forever altered after being viciously attacked by an XL bully-type dog, prompting legal action and discussions on the fate of the dangerous canine. The harrowing ordeal serves as a cautionary tale regarding the responsibility that comes with owning and caring for pets, particularly those with the strength to cause significant harm.