Sheffield XL bully dog to be destroyed after ‘brutal’ attack

South Yorkshire Police said the dog had been held in the force’s kennels after its owner failed to register it when the American XL bully ban came into force in England and Wales on 1 February.

The case was taken to court and in May, a judge granted a destruction order on the dog before the owner’s appeal was successful and it was returned to the family home.

Ch Insp Emma Cheney said: “The kennelling cost for the dog was more than £2,500, in addition to court costs, and further expense of police officers’ time, response and now the veterinary fees to destroy the dog.”

Ch Insp Cheney said the South Yorkshire force was “working hard to prevent injury from dangerous dogs to our communities”, but still needed people’s help.

“Our ongoing efforts are having a positive impact, and this year we have seen a reduction in serious injury caused by dogs.”

Dog owners needed to be “vigilant” and aware of their pets’ characteristics, she added.

“As with any dog, you need to take precaution and be realistic about your dog’s ability to cause harm.”

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