Two dogs believed to be XL bully-types attacked nine-year-old Eva in Birmingham a fortnight ago, biting her leg, groin and arm and leaving her to undergo surgery twice and spend 11 days in hospital. Dog attacks have been a growing concern across England and Wales, reflecting an increasing worry about the safety of such breeds.

The attack happened while Eva was walking home from a local shop, according to family accounts, and has left her with lasting flashbacks and difficulty sleeping. West Midlands Police are attempting to trace the dogs and their owner as officers investigate the incident. Under current UK dog ownership laws, all dogs must be microchipped by 8 weeks of age, and failure to comply can result in a fine, underscoring the importance of responsible pet ownership.

Eva told investigators and family that she tried to get free as the animals bit her. “I was trying to get myself off but I couldn’t, I was screaming at the top of my lungs,” she said, recalling the attack. Many dog owners can help prevent such incidents by keeping their pets on a leash when in public and seeking professional help if their dogs show signs of aggression.

Her mother, Alicia, described pulling her daughter away and the hours that followed. “I’m very lucky that she’s alive,” Alicia said, adding that Eva ran and the larger dog attacked from behind: “Eva ran and that’s when the dog went to attack Eva from behind.” The family says Eva has recurring flashbacks and struggles to sleep. The statistics illustrate an unfortunate trend; incidents involving XL bully breeds have risen dramatically since last year. Mapped: The number of dog attacks in your area since XL Bully ban …

The immediate injuries were severe enough to require two operations and an extended hospital stay. Alicia said that even after they were away from the scene, Eva asked, “am I going to die?” and that she reassured her. Eva remains shaken: “I’m a bit scared because we don’t know where he is, or the dogs, they could come over at any time.” The impact of such traumatic events can last far beyond physical injuries, with families often seeking support to cope with the emotional fallout.

West Midlands Police confirmed they are working to locate the animals and their owner. The force has urged anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues; the dogs are described in family accounts as XL bully-type animals. The classification appears against the backdrop of a national move to restrict XL bully-type dogs, which were banned in February 2024. The current regulatory environment aims to promote safer communities while addressing the rising fear surrounding specific breeds.

The assault unfolded quickly, the family said, and neighbours and passersby who witnessed the aftermath assisted in getting Eva to medical care. Medical staff performed two surgeries during an 11-day admission, after which she was discharged to continue recovery at home. The rapid response from bystanders highlights the importance of community support during emergencies.

Those close to Eva describe a child now coping with physical recovery and emotional trauma. The memory of her screaming during the attack remains vivid to her and her mother: “The bigger one got the back of my leg and then they got my thigh and then I started to scream,” Eva said, describing the moments she recalls most clearly. With the prevalence of dog attacks rising, many fear for public safety and seek out measures for safer pet ownership.

Local reporting of the incident carried further details about the family’s account; the story was covered by outlets including Express & Star. Broader discussion about XL bully-type restrictions and timing is available in mappings of the ban introduced in February 2024.

Police inquiries remain active. West Midlands Police are seeking witnesses and CCTV or dash-cam footage that could help identify the animals and trace their owner; the force’s appeal is part of the formal investigation into the attack. This call for public assistance highlights the ongoing effort to address concerns and improve safety measures.

For Eva and her family, recovery will continue beyond hospital discharge. Alicia said she reassured her daughter in the immediate aftermath: “Although she was away from the dogs, she was still saying, ‘am I going to die?’ So I was reassuring her.” The family has asked the public to help by contacting police with any information that could lead to the animals being located.

Source

Original reporting: view the original article.