Former Liverpool and Arsenal star Jermaine Pennant hospitalized after severe dog attack

Former Premier League winger Jermaine Pennant has shared details of a frightening encounter in North London that left him requiring significant medical attention. The 43-year-old was hospitalized last week after being mauled by a German Shepherd while out walking his own pets.

The incident occurred when the aggressive dog latched onto Pennant's right leg and refused to release its grip. According to media reports, the former Liverpool and Arsenal star was attempting to shield his own dog, an American Akita named King, when the attack shifted toward him. Pennant described being pinned to the ground as the animal continued its assault.

Heroic intervention by King

Fortunately, King intervened to protect his owner. The Akita managed to fight off the German Shepherd, preventing the situation from escalating further. While King escaped with only a minor nip, Pennant was left with four deep bite wounds that required more than 50 stitches.

"The minute he did he fought the dog off and saved what could’ve been a horrendous situation for me."

Jermaine Pennant

Following the attack, Pennant's partner, Mimmi Montgomery, arranged for a taxi to transport him to an emergency department. In addition to the extensive stitching, the former footballer revealed that he remains under medical supervision and is taking antibiotics. He also noted that he might eventually require plastic surgery to repair one of the wounds on his leg.

"King you’re a legend, love you, man’s best friend."

Jermaine Pennant

Despite the trauma, Pennant appeared in good spirits during a recent livestream of Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. While celebrating goals from Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, he showed off his bandaged leg to viewers. Pennant, who chose not to report the attack to the police, credited his dog's bravery for his survival.