diff --git a/tools/python/xen/xend/image.py b/tools/python/xen/xend/image.py
index f140c158c7..8c1f21a52e 100644
--- a/tools/python/xen/xend/image.py
+++ b/tools/python/xen/xend/image.py
@@ -248,6 +248,11 @@ class PPC_LinuxImageHandler(LinuxImageHandler):
 
 class HVMImageHandler(ImageHandler):
 
+    def __init__(self, vm, imageConfig, deviceConfig):
+        ImageHandler.__init__(self, vm, imageConfig, deviceConfig)
+        self.shutdownWatch = None
+
+
     def configure(self, imageConfig, deviceConfig):
         ImageHandler.configure(self, imageConfig, deviceConfig)