A Derbyshire man has spoken of his profound heartbreak and trauma after his beloved elderly terrier was mauled to death in a horrific attack by three suspected XL Bully dogs in a local park. Blake McElhatton, 31, from Chaddesden, said the incident has left him "mentally broken" and struggling to cope with the loss of his childhood companion.
Park Ambush Leaves Two Dogs Injured
The attack occurred on Friday, January 23, at Rykneld Park near St David's Close in Littleover. Blake's friend Otto was walking his two dogs, 15-year-old terrier Spirit and 13-year-old Jack Russell Leo, when three dogs reportedly ambushed them. Both pets were bitten and clawed during the violent confrontation, leaving them in a state of severe shock.
Members of the public, including a postman, bravely intervened in an attempt to save the animals. One onlooker managed to rescue Leo by placing him in the back of a car, but despite the efforts of five people to restrain the attacking dogs, Spirit could not be saved.
Devastating Injuries and Emotional Trauma
The injuries sustained by Spirit were catastrophic. The elderly terrier suffered a ripped neck, punctured lungs, and severe damage to his leg. Blake arrived at the veterinary clinic to find both dogs side by side for emergency treatment.
"I held them, but there was blood all over my hands," Blake recalled. "I'd had Spirit since I was a child, and poor Leo has grown up with him as well. Spirit was also blind and had dementia, so seeing what those awful dogs had done to him was just terrible."
The teaching assistant added that he hasn't been able to sleep or stop thinking about the attack, describing himself as traumatised by what he witnessed. Leo has reportedly "not been himself" since losing his lifelong companion.
Police Investigation and Breed Concerns
Derbyshire Police confirmed they were called to reports of three dogs resembling XL Bullies in St David's Close, though the breed has not been officially confirmed. Officers and a dog warden attended the scene and seized all three animals.
A 36-year-old woman from Derby was arrested on suspicion of allowing a fighting dog to be in a public place without a muzzle or lead. She has been released on bail while investigations continue. XL Bullies became illegal to sell, abandon, give away, breed, or have in public without a lead and muzzle under recent legislation.
Community Safety Fears and Memorial Plans
Blake expressed particular concern about the proximity of the attack to local schools, noting that "this could have happened to anyone" and that the incident could have easily led to something much worse. Floral tributes have been left on a tree near where Spirit was attacked, reflecting community sympathy.
The devastated owner has now established a fundraiser to cover Spirit's cremation costs and create a memorial patch in the countryside, with any additional funds going toward related expenses. The incident has highlighted ongoing concerns about dangerous dog breeds and public safety in community spaces.
