XL Bully owner in Swindon could have dog destroyed

Nikita Berry, 33, of Tudor Walk, Walcot, pleaded guilty to possession of a fighting dog and allowing a fighting dog to be in a public place without a muzzle or lead at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Thursday, April 10.

On Thursday, February 20, Berry was walking her XL Bully, called Phenny, on Keble Close, Nythe, without placing a muzzle on her and she admitted not having a certificate of exemption for the pet.

A contingent destruction order was made, meaning Phenny faces being put down unless Berry obtains a certificate of exemption within two months, by June 10.

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Court documents state: “Magistrates, having considered facts of case and dog behaviour and that the owner is a fit and proper person find that the dog is not a risk to public safety.”

At the same hearing, Berry was sentenced for stealing £49.70 worth of goods from Morrisons, causing criminal damage at the store to the value of £68.25 to baked goods and perishable items and assault by beating, all on Sunday, February 9.

The 33-year-old is now subject to a year-long community order, meaning she must complete 20 rehabilitation days and pay £100 compensation to the supermarket.