West Midlands Police called to over 800 dangerous dog incidents since April
They've seen a rise in incidents since the pandemic
Last updated 25th Oct 2023
West Midlands Police have seen an increase in dog attacks over the last year, being called to over 800 incidents since April - 288 of these dogs being XL Bullies.
Just last month, Ian Pryce was mauled to death by two XL Bullies near Walsall, which promoted the Prime Minister to ban the breed by Christmas.
The West Midlands Dog training Centre in Kenilworth is home to both dogs being trained to be police dogs, and ones that are classed as dangerous.
There are 50 dangerous dogs in kennels at the centre at the moment, whilst investigations are ongoing into each incident.
The police have to use a variety of tactics, to restrain the dogs when they're called out to the incidents.
These include poles to move the dogs whilst at a safe distance, 'bite back' spray so dogs are less likely to bite, and electric shields; used to scare the dogs and keep police safe.
Sedation is also used, but this takes a longer time.
Police here say there is a variety of reasons for the attacks, including the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis.
Lyndsey Smart, is a dog legislation officer and has worked on many dangerous dog incidents. She said: "Post Covid, lots of people had dogs and were breeding dogs and because of the pandemic the dogs weren't socialised and it was very difficult for them to get training.
"People have now returned to work, so lots of dogs have separation anxiety.
"There are definitely more dogs, and we've seen an increase in the larger dogs which can cause worse injuries."
She also added that the cost-of-living may be having an impact: "We are in a cost-of-living crisis so some people can't afford vet treatment if their dog is ill, and sometimes dogs respond to this with anger."