Pensioner Hospitalized with Leg ‘Hanging Off’ After Dog Attack
In a harrowing 48 hours, four dogs were seized by South Yorkshire Police following a series of violent attacks that left several victims hospitalized with severe injuries, including puncture wounds, bites, and a woman whose leg was described as “hanging off.”
The incidents began on September 22 and extended into the following day, prompting regional emergency responses. One of the most alarming cases occurred in Armthorpe, Doncaster, where a woman in her 60s was brutally attacked by a Rottweiler-Husky cross. The pensioner, left with part of her leg “hanging off” from the vicious bite, was rushed to the hospital. Fortunately, her injuries were severe but not life-threatening.
Later that same day, officers were called to another dog attack involving a Belgian Malinois. A 20-year-old woman suffered severe lacerations to her arms after stepping between the dog and a family member during an aggressive outburst. She, too, required immediate hospital treatment.
The violence continued into the next day, September 23, when a 33-year-old woman from Maltby sustained puncture wounds and a broken wrist after being attacked by an XL Bully inside her own home. The dog reportedly turned aggressive while the woman was feeding another pet, leading to an attack on both the dog and the woman. She was hospitalized with injuries to her hands, arms, and torso.
In the final incident, a 13-year-old boy was bitten by a Cane Corso, though his injuries were reported as minor.
Chief Inspector Emma Cheney, who leads the force’s efforts on dangerous dogs, highlighted the ongoing threat posed by such attacks. “Sadly, these incidents are not isolated and are a daily occurrence for our officers,” Cheney said. “We continue to see an unprecedented demand on our force and other organizations, such as the NHS. Please take action. Simple steps can be the difference between life and death.”
All four dogs involved in the attacks have been seized and remain in police custody. Authorities urge dog owners to stay vigilant and take extra precautions, particularly around children and visitors. The police advised that dogs should always be walked on leads in public spaces and be given safe, secure areas when visitors are present.
The force stressed the importance of proactive action, reminding the public that many dog bites occur within the home by familiar animals. They encouraged owners to stop thinking, “It won’t happen to me”, and to take the necessary steps to prevent potential harm.
South Yorkshire Police continue to investigate the incidents and reiterate the importance of responsible dog ownership for the safety of all.
Four canines were confiscated amid terrifying 48 hours with an elderly man’s limb severely injured.
