A tragic incident in Banbury, Oxfordshire, has left a dog dead after an attack by a suspected XL Bully while out on a walk.
Authorities were called to the scene at a field between St Peters Church and Hanwell Fields on Wednesday, March 26, where a small mixed-breed dog, a seven-year-old schnauzer-poodle cross, was killed.
The Attack and Initial Investigation
Witnesses reported that the dog, which was off its lead, attacked the smaller dog without provocation.
The owners of the attacking dog, believed to be two XL Bullies, recalled their animals and quickly left the scene.
Following the attack, Thames Valley Police launched an appeal for any witnesses to come forward.
Arrest and Seizure of Dogs
On Friday, March 28, a woman in her 30s was arrested on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and of being the owner of a dog dangerously out of control.
In connection with the incident, two dogs were seized by the police.
The woman was later released on bail, pending further investigations.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest and provided an update on the ongoing case.
They said, “The woman from Banbury was arrested on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and being the owner of a dog dangerously out of control.
Two dogs have been seized. Our enquiries are ongoing.”
Rising Concerns Over XL Bully Attacks
This tragic event comes just a month after a 19-year-old woman was killed in Bristol in a similar attack by what was believed to be an XL Bully-type dog.
The surge in dangerous dog incidents has raised concerns across the UK.
A particularly horrifying case occurred just days before, when armed police in Warrington were forced to shoot and kill two XL Bullies after they viciously attacked an elderly man.
Legislative Action on XL Bullies
In response to a growing number of dangerous dog attacks, the UK government imposed stricter regulations on XL Bullies starting in December 2023.
The ban, which took full effect in February 2024, made it illegal to own or possess an XL Bully without a Certificate of Exemption.
It also became a criminal offence to sell, abandon, or let the breed stray, and it is now required for these dogs to be muzzled and on a lead when in public.
The crackdown comes as incidents of dog attacks have been on the rise, with police recording over 80 incidents a day.
Last year alone, there were 30,539 offences involving dogs injuring people, a significant increase from the previous year.
The tragic loss of a dog in Banbury highlights the ongoing dangers posed by certain breeds and the increasing strain on authorities to address the rising number of attacks.