'XL Bully' owner in hospital after being attacked while dogs on the loose

One dog was traced and seized, while the other remained at large at the weekend.

‘XL Bully’ owner in hospital after being attacked while dogs on the loose in AirdrieGetty Images via Getty Images

A XL Bully-type dog attacked its owner after two were reportedly on the loose in North Lanarkshire.

Police were called to Strathearn Drive in Airdrie shortly after 4pm on Sunday after receiving a call about two out of control large “bully-type dogs”.

One of the dogs attacked the 35-year-old man who attended University Hospital Wishaw for treatment.

The dog that caused the injuries was traced and seized, while the other dog remained at large.

It was eventually traced in the care of a family member.

Police said enquiries into the incident were ongoing.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 4.10pm on Sunday, April 14, police were called to a report of two large bully-type dogs loose and one of the dogs had attacked their owner on Strathearn Drive, Plains, Airdrie.

“The 35-year-old man attended University Hospital Wishaw.

“Officers attended and the dog who caused the injuries was traced and seized. The other dog was traced and is in the care of a family member.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”

XL Bully ban: What are the rules?

Restrictions around XL Bully dogs have come into force in Scotland.

Since February, owners are no longer be allowed to breed, sell, exchange, gift, abandon or allow the dogs to stray.

It will still be legal for current owners to keep their pets but they must be muzzled and on a lead when in public.

Even tougher restrictions will come into force from August 1.

From then it will become an offence to own an XL bully without an exemption or having applied for an exemption.

Owners will have to pay to apply for an exemption and the Scottish Government said details of the scheme will be announced in the coming weeks.

Anyone convicted of breaching the new safeguards could face up to six months behind bars and/or a fine of up to £5,000.

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