'Trauma beyond comprehension' - Petition launched after North East puppy mauled by XL Bully hits 15k signatures

Nikita Devon, 18, was walking dog Maisie, a 16-week-old cocker spaniel when two XL bully dogs "escaped" from a nearby home. The family say the dogs ripped Maisie from the teen's arms, before "ragging" her about like a toy, "pulling" the puppy between them, before one let go, and bit Nikita.

Nearby workmen, who climbed on top of their van for safety, tried to help Nikita - but she would not leave Maisie's side. Vets later confirmed Maisie suffered a broken jaw and puncture wounds to her head, face, neck and body, the family say. Police are investigating the attack in Ferryhill, County Durham.

Family member Shannon Leigh, who is helping lead the petition, said: “Maisie was from my litter, I witnessed this attack happen, it was horrific. While police have since been in contact, it has only been after we pushed for it. As a family, we have not received the active support you would expect after something so horrific.

“Dog attacks like this are happening all the time across the UK, many going unreported or not dealt with properly. It is clear this is a national problem, not just a local one, and urgent action is needed to protect both people and animals before more lives are lost.

“This was not an isolated case. XL Bully attacks are being reported across the UK, alongside many incidents involving other breeds. Current laws — requiring muzzling, leads, secure housing, insurance, and registration — are not being properly enforced. Families are left living in fear, while irresponsible owners face little accountability.

“This isn’t a local issue anymore — it’s a national crisis that the public are demanding action on. While Maisie’s case involved XL Bullies, this campaign is about all dangerous breeds and the urgent need for real enforcement of the Dangerous Dogs Act and Licensing for ALL DOGS. Maisie was on her lead, doors from her house. This should never have happened!

“The trauma Nikita suffered is beyond comprehension, especially in her own street. She wasn't eating, sleeping, or going out.This issue affects every town, every family, and every child walking their pet. Attacks are being reported all over the country, yet so often they are brushed aside or underreported. This is no longer acceptable.

“We need national coverage to push Parliament and the Government to act. With such extraordinary growth in just 48 hours, this petition is proof that the UK public want change — and urgently.”

The family are calling for:

• Stricter enforcement of existing laws.
• Licensing for all dog owners.
• Regular property checks by councils.
• Visible licensing and insurance requirements.
• Proper victim support, including counselling.

Following the attack earlier this month, Durham Constabulary said: "We were called to reports of a dog attack in Grasmere Road, Ferryhill, at around 12.30pm on Wednesday (September 3). Officers attended and one of our dog handlers removed two XL Bully dogs that are believed to have escaped from an address and mauled a Cocker Spaniel puppy before biting a woman.

"Sadly, the puppy was deceased at the scene. The woman’s injuries were not believed to be serious and she made her own way to hospital. Both dogs had XL Bully certificates. The dogs' owners - a man and woman in their 20s - are currently assisting officers in their investigation which is ongoing."

The family has also launched a Go Fund Me for their campaign to help with campaigning costs: https://www.gofundme.com You can sign the petition here: https://www.change.org