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My name is Blake, and I’ve had no choice but to reach out to the public for financial support. On January 23rd, my 15-year-old terrier, Spirit, and my 13-year-old Jack Russell, Leo, were brutally attacked by three XL Bully dogs off Rykneld Park in Derby during their usual morning walk with Otto. I was at work when it happened, and I still blame myself for not being there to protect my “babies.” Despite XL Bullies being banned since February 2024, these three were running loose, unmuzzled, and without an owner in sight. Spirit suffered severe injuries to his neck, back legs, and a suspected punctured lung, leaving him unable to breathe. He was put to sleep that day, and I was with him in his final moments—tragically, it wasn’t his time to go and did not pass over the rainbow bridge naturally. Leo, who was also by Spirit’s side, in intensive care, also fighting for his life. Leo survived but has been deeply traumatized, and we’ve been supporting each other through emotional recovery and small exposure therapy. Otto, who was walking them on their leads during the attack, was also bitten on his hands and legs, as were some of the five bystanders who bravely stepped in to help, including our local postman. In the chaos, Leo was thrown into a nearby car through an open window to save his life. The vet said “Leo were a incredibly lucky boy” Meanwhile, the three XL Bullies turned on Spirit and mauled him to death.
A 36 year old woman was arrested and bailed, enquiries are still being made. The dogs were confirmed as XL Bullies and destroyed. No charges have been brought, as just yet, which I am trying so hard, to keep pushing for justice for my "babies" with pushing the police for updates and the media.
See full articles here:
Since the traumatic incident, I’ve had weekly phone calls from my GP, received mental health crisis support, and am now in therapy. I’ve been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and my existing agoraphobia has worsened. I haven’t been able to return to my home in Derby and have had to rent a room elsewhere, to feel safe due to the severe nightmares and flashbacks, i have been receiving. Unfortunately, I’ve fallen behind on rent because I still haven’t been paid a certain benefit from the DWP after three months, which has been very upsetting as I’ve worked all my life but haven’t received the support I should be entitled to.
I have also left two jobs since Spirit was murdered, focusing instead on Leo’s recovery, while moving out of Derby. Leo could not be in Derby after the attack, as his grief and traumatic physiological and physical pain, was unbearable to witness. So we had to "Run away" and focus on ourselves. I’ve lost a lot of income and this has not improved despite being patient. I’ve started a new job, but it’s a zero-hour contract with no guaranteed hours. Right now, my main priority is Leo and fighting for justice for Spirit and Leo—that’s all that matters to me at this time including our health.
You can listen to my BBC Radio Derby Live interview on Wednesday 15th April 2026 here, on the affects it has had on my little family who will always come first.
The insurance position of the owner has not been confirmed to me, which means no-win no-fee solicitors will not take the case on. I cannot wait to find out if the three XL bully owner has insurance. Unfortunately, i have been sadly informed by a few people who have shared there cases with me, that their XL bully attack cases, has not been able to gain a solicitor or claim funds through third party insurance, due to their XL bullies were not insured or registered.
I’m not going to go into detail about the investigation as it’s ongoing — but I am working with my MP and pushing for accountability. I really do need legal representation on my side, right now to support in ensuring Spirit and Leo get's justice. I really do need the support from the public to help me make this happen. It has been really hard, to ask for help, but i cannot let this drop.
"Spirit should be here with me now, Spirit and Leo went for their regular morning walk but Spirit returned back to me in ashes"
It was cold-blooded murder and cruel. Someone needs to be made accountable for his death.
The ban exists. Spirit died in a park he’d walked his whole life, attacked by dogs that had no legal right to be there. If that concerns you, ask your own MP what proactive enforcement looks like in your area.
If the public could support me in fundraising for solicitor and legal fees for Spirit and Leo, it would really mean alot to us. I am sorry, i have had to ask for help.
Thank you so much to all Spirits and Leo's supporters and followers on "Spirits-Law - Every dog lead to be licenced" on Facebook. You are helping our healing process.
I have to remind myself, when seeking out for further support. Dogs do not understand money but they do know what love is…. Well most do anyway … xxx
Organizer
