Child Injured in Dog Attack; Owner Arrested Under New UK Laws

A serious dog attack occurred in a residential garden, where an XL bully dog aggressively assaulted a young girl, causing significant injuries to her neck. Fortunately, the child's bleeding was controlled, and her injuries are not considered life-threatening. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the ownership of XL bullies, a breed banned in the UK since February, which requires owners to register their dogs and adhere to strict regulations. In connection with the attack, a 37-year-old woman was arrested on multiple charges, including possession of a banned breed, allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control, and child neglect. Following the incident, all three individuals involved were released from custody, while the dog remains in police kennels for further assessment. Authorities have expressed that the situation could have resulted in a tragic outcome, emphasizing the need for responsible pet ownership. South Yorkshire Police have issued a warning to dog owners, urging them to keep their pets on a lead in public spaces, stick to designated paths, and supervise their animals closely. They stressed the importance of understanding dog behavior to ensure the safety of both the pet and the public. This incident comes on the heels of another dog attack in Coventry, where a woman in her 30s lost her life, although authorities do not believe that dog was a banned breed.