Exclusive:
Veterinary surgeon Nick Horniman has explained why even the most well-behaved pet dogs might attack, and outlines the warning signs owners should look out for
An expert has warned that even the most well-behaved pooch can suddenly turn after a woman was fatally attacked by her own pet dog.
Police and emergency services were called to a house on Wexford Road in Coventry on Monday after a 33-year-old woman, named locally as mum-of-two Kelly Reilly, was reported to be in a critical condition after being savaged by her pet. Kelly, who suffered from health issues, is understood to have had a seizure and collapsed screaming to the ground as the beast pounced on her.
West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) said nothing could be done to save the mum who was “confirmed dead at the scene a short time later.” The dog involved in the attack is not believed to be from a banned breed, police have said, and has been seized.
Chief Inspector David Amos, from the local neighbourhood policing area, said: “We understand that this is a distressing and tragic incident and we would like to thank the local community for their support and to our emergency services colleagues who dealt with this incident.
“Our thoughts remain firmly with the family and loved ones of the woman who has sadly died. Although the breed of the dog is yet to be confirmed, at this stage we do not believe it to be of a banned breed. However, a full assessment will be required before we can confirm this.”
Nick Horniman MRCVS, veterinary surgeon and founder of online pet pharmacy www.mypetsvet.co.uk, told the Mirror: “Even the most well-behaved family dogs can attack, often due to factors that are overlooked or misunderstood by owners.” The vet said that key triggers can include fear, pain and sudden movements that startle the animal.
“Dogs may also react aggressively if they feel their territory is threatened or if they are protecting their food or toys. A new environment or the presence of strangers can also lead to anxiety and defensive actions.”
The expert said attacks can be prevented if owners are aware of the “subtle” warning signs of a dog’s discomfort or agitation. These include growling, showing their teeth, stiffening their body or avoiding eye contact. Mr Horniman continued: “Rapid tail wagging, especially when combined with tense body language, can also be a sign of stress.
“Owners need to recognise these cues and remove their dogs from potentially stressful situations to avoid escalation that could lead to an attack. If your dog is showing signs of persistent aggressive behaviour you should speak to your local vet or dog behaviourist to come up with a plan to help manage their behaviour.”
Kelly’s death was the fourth fatal dog attack in the UK in 2024, after a record 16 deaths in 2023 – up from six in 2022, according to data from the Office for National Statistics. Many of the recent deaths have involved the American XL bully breed, which was added to the list of banned breeds in England and Wales at the start of the year.
