Former Premier League footballer Jermaine Pennant was left needing more than 50 stitches after being mauled by a German Shepherd while walking his dogs in north London, according to BBC Sport and The Sun. The 43-year-old former winger stated that the attacking dog latched onto his right leg and refused to let go as he attempted to protect his own dog, King.

According to BBC Sport, King intervened to fight off the attacking dog, preventing what Pennant described on Instagram as a potentially horrendous situation. Pennant told The Sun that he sustained four bite wounds, received hospital treatment, and required more than 50 stitches to his right leg. He added that King was unhurt aside from a small nip on his leg and noted that he declined to report the incident to the police.

Background

Jermaine Pennant is a former professional footballer who made 341 professional appearances during his career, including 231 Premier League appearances across a 19-year career before retiring in 2018. During his playing days, he featured for clubs such as Liverpool and Stoke City. Following his retirement, Pennant has worked as a pundit for Talksport.

Why it matters

Incidents involving aggressive animal attacks can happen to anyone regardless of public profile, highlighting the unpredictability of everyday situations. For sports fans and pet owners alike, the story serves as a reminder of the strong bonds between owners and their pets, as well as the safety precautions required when walking animals in public spaces.