A MAN who was savaged by a pack of American bulldogs when he picked up his dog in a bid to protect it was due to undergo plastic surgery today (Wednesday, October 22).

The American bulldogs were being walked by their owner, who lost an arm when he was mauled a month ago.

Breeder Stephen Potts, 48, was arrested on suspicion of having dogs that were dangerously out of control after the 63-year-old was bitten on the head and leg in a field between Belmont, Durham City, and Low Pittington yesterday (Tuesday) afternoon.

The Staffordshire bull terrier, which was involved in a fight with the American bulldogs, remains in a poorly condition and may not survive.

A woman in her late 60s, from Sedgefield, who was with Mr Potts while he walked five of his dogs was bitten on the calf.

Initial reports suggested a third person had also been injured, but police confirmed today this was not the case.

Chief Inspector Andy Huddleston said: "We are still establishing at what point the animals were or were not on leads, but at the time the incident has taken place, they weren't on leads.

“The owner of the Staffordshire bull terrier got hold of his animal and lifted it up to protect it and at that point was attacked by the American bulldogs. He suffered serious injuries to his head and calf.”

All 14 of Mr Potts’ bulldogs, kept behind his house in Low Pittington, have been removed and placed in kennels.

Chief Insp Huddleston said: “In due course there will be a decision made as to what happens with these animals and our investigation will be looking at which of them were involved in this incident.”

Mr Potts, who was released on bail last night (Tuesday), had only just been discharged from hospital after two of his American bulldogs ripped off his arm in nearby High Pittington, on September 21.

One dog was shot by a police marksman while the other was later put down. Mr Potts had his right arm amputated and the other was only saved after surgery.

Days after being discharged from hospital, residents were horrified to see Mr Potts walking several dogs at a time.

Chief Insp Huddleston said: "One of the lines of the investigation is, was that person in control of those animals?

"Was it reasonable to expect he would be in control of them having lost an arm and recently come out of hospital? While the dogs are not classified under the Dangerous Dogs Act, was it feasible that he could control them?"

Durham County councillor Stephen Guy said he felt "pure disbelief" when he heard of the second incident.

He said: "Durham County Council neighbourhood wardens, along with the police were swiftly on the scene and dogs under control after the incident.

"I'm glad to say all the dogs have been taken under control and are in kennels so in my view there is no issue of community safety in the immediate future."