A man has been killed by his own XL bully dog at his home in Lancashire. David Daintree, 53, was attacked by the pet in Ashley Court in Accrington and was found dead at about 21:30 BST on Tuesday, Lancashire Police said. Officers had “no alternative” but to shoot the dog to “prevent it from causing further injury”, the force said.

Supt Marie Jackson said Mr Daintree's family were being supported by specialist officers after the "tragic incident".

An investigation has been launched and detectives are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

XL Bully Kills Owner: Tragic Incident Sparks Investigation

The incident has sparked outrage and concern within the community. The ambulance service first contacted police after it received reports of the man being attacked, the force said. Mr Daintree was later found dead and the dog was deemed to be "continuing to pose a significant threat of serious harm".

Lancashire Police said its officers were forced to shoot the dog to prevent it from causing further harm to others.

Ms Jackson said: "My thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.

“An investigation into the circumstances is ongoing and I would appeal to anyone with any information to get in touch.

“We will have extra officers out and about in the area carrying out enquiries and I would urge anyone with information or concerns to speak to them.”

XL Bully Ban: A Response to Growing Concerns

The tragedy comes amidst growing concerns over the XL bully breed, which has been linked to several fatal attacks across the UK. In England and Wales, owning an XL Bully without an exemption certificate has been banned since February 1. The government's move to ban XL bullys followed a series of attacks on people.

From 1 February, it became a criminal offence to own the XL bully breed in England and Wales without an exemption certificate. Anyone who owns one of the dogs must have had the animal neutered, have it microchipped and keep it muzzled and on a lead in public, among other restrictions.

The XL Bully, which is the largest type of American bulldog, was made illegal to own in England and Wales as of January 31 without exemption, following a spate of fatal attacks across the UK. The powerful breed has distinctive features, including an average 20-inch height, broad shoulders, a bulky head and nine-stone weight.

Public Safety and the Debate Over Breed Restrictions

A recent study found that of the ten areas in England with the most XL bully attacks, five were in the north west. The ban has been met with mixed reactions, with some supporting the measure to protect public safety while others argue that it unfairly targets a specific breed.

Animal-rights organisation Peta supported the ban with exemption certificates. But some dog lovers said the breed was unfairly targeted. The XL is the largest of four types of American Bully, and was cross-bred for fighting, with a muscular body. It can weigh nine stone and has a powerful bite.

Thousands of XL bully owners received exemption certificates before the ban came into force. The incident in Accrington underscores the ongoing debate surrounding breed-specific legislation and the need for responsible dog ownership. As investigations continue, it remains to be seen what impact this tragedy will have on the ongoing debate surrounding XL Bully ownership.

A Call for Action

The tragic death of David Daintree serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by even the most beloved pets. It emphasizes the importance of responsible dog ownership, proper training, and a greater understanding of breed characteristics. Law enforcement and animal welfare organizations are urging the public to report any suspicious activity or concerns related to dangerous dogs. The need for increased awareness and vigilance is paramount in ensuring the safety of communities across the country. This incident highlights the importance of taking measures to ensure the safety of people and animals alike. It is crucial for dog owners to prioritize responsible pet ownership and to be aware of potential risks, while advocating for a safer environment for all.