Jermaine Pennant Fears for Leg After Brutal Dog Attack, Requiring 50 Stitches

Former Premier League footballer Jermaine Pennant has spoken about a severe dog attack that left him requiring 50 stitches and a potential skin graft. The incident occurred while Pennant was walking his own American Akita, King, and he intervened when another dog began to attack King.

Pennant, 43, recounted that he feared for his leg during the attack. "I was fearing for my leg. I knew it was bad, but I couldn't see it because my trousers were stuck to it," he told talkSPORT. He described one wound as being so severe that it resembled a "crater" with significant skin loss, necessitating a consultation with a plastic surgeon.

In an emotional Instagram post, Pennant credited his dog, King, with intervening and fighting off the German Shepherd, potentially preventing a more serious outcome. "My hero still protecting me and trying to look after me, KING you’re a legend love you, man’s best friend, thanks for taking care of us both," Pennant wrote.

Pennant received immediate medical attention, including a tetanus jab and antibiotics. He expressed hope for no lasting damage, though acknowledged the likelihood of a scar, and potentially a skin graft scar, which would affect a tattoo on his leg. He confirmed he has no intention of reporting the incident to the police.

Reports indicate a rise in out-of-control dog attacks in recent years. Pennant, who retired from football in 2018 after a 17-year career, made 231 Premier League appearances for clubs including Stoke, Liverpool, Birmingham City, Leeds United, Portsmouth, and Arsenal.