A woman was left scarred for life after an XL bully-type dog clamped onto her foot and dragged her for several metres through her home. Elaine Hughes screamed in agony as the powerful American bulldog bit into her foot, pulling her from a sofa and dragging her across the floor. She and Iain Martin were unable to overpower the dog during the unprovoked attack. Martin, who was looking after the dog for a jailed friend, shouted for the dog to let go, but this only made the dog bite harder. The incident took place at 24 Catmoor Crescent, Scone on 4 March 2023.
Elaine Hughes suffered severe injuries and permanent disfigurement as a result of the attack. After the dog, named Patch, slightly eased its grip, she was able to free her foot from her slipper, which the dog then walked off with in its mouth. Ms Hughes was taken to Perth Royal Infirmary where she received treatment for significant swelling, bruising, and puncture wounds on her foot. Despite medical intervention, she was left with noticeable scarring, ongoing pain, and a loss of sensation.
During the court proceedings at Perth Sheriff Court, Martin, 38, pleaded guilty to being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog and allowing it to attack Ms Hughes. The dog, described as an American bulldog also known as an XL bully or American pit bull, was deemed too dangerous to be rehomed and is currently in kennels funded by the police and Crown Office since the incident in March 2023.
As Martin, who has a previous conviction for causing death by dangerous driving in 2005, awaits sentencing, the court has deferred consideration of destruction and disqualification orders for the dog. Sheriff Alison McKay highlighted the seriousness of the offence due to the injuries sustained by Ms Hughes and postponed a decision on the dog’s fate to a later date. The court noted that the dog’s owner may have the opportunity to provide input before a final decision is made.
Despite the distressing nature of the incident, it serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the potential consequences of failing to control dangerous animals in our communities. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of individuals and prevent similar incidents in the future.