A 5-year-old boy has been hospitalized after being “aggressively approached” and mauled by a dog while visiting a park, authorities said.
On Nov. 6, the child was playing with his mother in Doncaster when a dog — believed to be a bull breed — suddenly attacked his face, according to South Yorkshire Police.
The boy was taken to a nearby hospital, where he received treatment for injuries to his eye, ears, and cheeks, officials said.
“What should have been an enjoyable experience for a little boy has turned into every parent’s nightmare,” police said in a statement, noting that the injuries could leave “lasting physical scars.”
Following the attack, officers seized the dog, which was reportedly off-leash at the time. A 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of owning a dog dangerously out of control. Police confirmed that he has since been released on bail, while the dog remains in custody.
“This incident should never have happened and could have been avoided by responsible ownership,” Officer Steve Usher said in a statement. “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. Don’t think it won’t happen to you — any dog has the potential to cause injury.”
