A woman has been arrested after a four-year-old boy was left with wounds to his face and head following a vicious attack by a bull-mastiff type dog.
The youngster was reportedly playing at his friend’s house in the Norris Green area of Liverpool, Merseyside, when he was set upon by the dog yesterday.
A neighbour, who heard the commotion, bravely stepped in and pulled the dog away from the boy before seeking help. Police say this intervention probably saved the child’s life.
He was taken to hospital where is is described as being in a serious but stable condition.
Police seized the animal while a 31-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of having an out-of-control dog.
She remains in police custody where she is yet to be questioned by investigators.
Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.
Detective Inspector Chris Hawitt, said: ‘This incident has left a young child with serious injuries to his face and head, and will have been an extremely distressing incident for all who witnessed it.
‘I would like to commend the neighbour whose quick thinking and selfless swift actions have probably saved the life of this young boy, who has suffered life changing injuries.
‘Our enquiries into the full circumstances of the incident are ongoing, and we have seized the dog for the safety of the community and to establish its breed.
‘We have a dedicated Sergeant who reviews all cases concerning dangerous dogs, and are keen to speak to any witnesses who may have seen the incident or this dog on previous occasions.
‘I want to emphasise that dog owners need to be mindful of their dogs’ behaviour at all times , particularly where young children may be around the dog. And if owners take their dogs into public spaces they should keep their pet on a lead and muzzled if it is liable to be aggressive.’
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on Twitter @MerPolCC or call 101 quoting reference 929 of August 13. Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Yesterday’s mauling in Liverpool is the latest in a series of dog attacks to hit headlines.
Last Wednesday morning, Wednesday, 34-year-old professional dog walker Ian ‘Wiggy’ Symes was pronounced dead in a park in Fareham, Hampshire, after he was allegedly mauled by the dog he was with. It is speculated Mr Symes may have suffered a seizure before the dog ‘bit his face’.
