Jermaine Pennant Needed More Than 50 Stitches After Dog Attack

Former Premier League footballer Jermaine Pennant needed more than 50 stitches after being mauled by a dog in north London, BBC Sport reports.

The attack happened last week while Pennant, who is 43, was walking his two dogs. He says a German Shepherd latched onto his leg and would not let go while he tried to protect his dog, King.

King then fought off the other dog. Pennant says his dog was not hurt.

Pennant told The Sun that he needed stitches to his right leg for four bite wounds, and that he was treated in hospital. He described the attack in an Instagram post and thanked his partner, Mimmi Montgomery, for looking after him and King.

He has also said he chose not to report the attack to the police.

Pennant made 231 Premier League appearances over a 19-year career, which included time at Arsenal, before he retired in 2018. He now works as a pundit for talkSPORT, giving his views on the game on radio and television.

Most people think of dog bites as a scratch or a fright. Pennant's account is a reminder that a bite can cause deep wounds that need proper medical care. Anyone bitten by a dog, even a small one, should get checked by a doctor, especially if the skin is broken.

For dog owners, the story also shows how quickly a walk can turn. It is a reminder to keep dogs on a lead when other animals are nearby.