West Ham United forward Saïd Benrahma has spoken of the terrifying moment his family's pet dog was savagely mauled by an XL Bully in a brutal street attack that has left the footballer and his relatives traumatised.
The shocking incident occurred as Benrahma's brother was walking their small mixed-breed dog near their London home when the powerful bully breed launched an unprovoked assault, leaving the family pet with severe injuries.
Graphic Details of the Attack Emerge
According to court documents obtained by The Independent, the attack was so vicious that the family feared their dog would be killed in front of them. The XL Bully, which wasn't muzzled and was being walked without proper restraint, clamped its jaws around the smaller animal and refused to let go.
"The sound was horrific," a source close to the family revealed. "They were screaming for help while this powerful animal shook their poor dog like a rag doll. They genuinely thought it was going to be torn to pieces."
Footballer's Family Left Traumatised
The attack has left Benrahma's family deeply shaken, with the Algerian international himself said to be devastated by the incident. Their pet dog required extensive veterinary treatment and is still recovering from both physical and psychological wounds.
This case emerges amid growing national concern about XL Bully attacks across the UK, with several high-profile incidents leading to serious injuries and even fatalities in recent months.
Growing Calls for Stricter Controls
The attack on Benrahma's family pet has intensified the debate around dangerous dog legislation, with animal welfare experts and victim support groups demanding:
- Mandatory muzzle requirements in public spaces
- Stricter licensing and insurance for powerful breeds
- Better enforcement of existing dangerous dog laws
- Increased public education about responsible ownership
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed they were aware of the incident and that investigations are ongoing, though no arrests have been made at this stage.
The case has highlighted the ongoing challenges authorities face in balancing animal welfare concerns with public safety, particularly as attacks by powerful breeds continue to make headlines across the country.
