A 5-year-old boy was hospitalized after being “aggressively approached” and mauled by a dog while visiting a park in Doncaster, according to authorities.
On Nov. 6, the child was playing with his mother when a dog, believed to be a bull breed, suddenly lunged at him and attacked his face, the South Yorkshire Police said.
He was taken to a nearby hospital and treated for injuries to his eyes, ears, and cheeks.
“What should have been an enjoyable experience for a little boy has turned into every parent’s nightmare,” police said in a statement, adding that the injuries could leave “lasting physical scars.”
After the attack, officers seized the dog, which appeared to be off its leash at the time.
A 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of owning a dog dangerously out of control. Authorities said he has since been released on bail, while the dog remains in police kennels.
“This incident should never have happened and could have been avoided by responsible ownership,” Officer Steve Usher said. “If you are in an area with children who can act in excitable and unpredictable ways, there should be no reason a dog should be off its leash.”
He added, “Being a responsible owner is the difference between dogs causing fear and harm in our community. Please do your part and act responsibly — don’t assume it won’t happen to you or that your dog would never do that. Any dog has the potential to cause injury.”
