A BUILDER was left seriously injured after being mauled by an XL Bully during a tea break.
The dog, called Ozzy, repeatedly bit into the man’s leg, leaving his flesh ripped away from the bone.
It occurred while the builder was working on a home extension in Norwich on January 21.
While the owner had reportedly agreed to keep the dog inside, it escaped when the builder was asked if he wanted a drink.
The savage attack left the man needing surgery, as he is unsure if his lower leg will regain feeling.
In addition to the physical damage, the self-employed builder has also suffered financial damage as he has been left unable to work.
It comes after legislation in February 2024 made it illegal to own an XL Bully without an exemption certificate.
An insurance policy had also been taken out on Ozzy, with a £12,000 payout.
While Ozzy had been registered exempt, the attack could mean the dog is subject to a destruction order.
Daniel Savino, 46, who had been looking after his partner’s dog on the day of the attack, pleaded guilty to being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control when it caused injury.
He will be sentenced on September 25 and could face time in prison.
Savino’s defence solicitor said the dog had been bought four years ago, and that the attack was “out of character”.
He said it was an “unfortunate slip” that it had escaped through three door gates.
