A five-year-old boy is facing a future of lasting scars after a horrific dog attack in a South Yorkshire park left him with severe facial injuries.
Horrific Park Attack
The young child was walking with his mother in Mexborough, Doncaster, on Thursday when the incident occurred. According to police, a dog that was off its lead 'aggressively' approached the boy before launching a savage attack on his face.
The child sustained significant damage to his eye, ears, and cheeks in the mauling, which was witnessed by his horrified mother. He was rushed to hospital for emergency treatment following the traumatic event.
Police Response and Arrest
South Yorkshire Police confirmed that a 29-year-old man was arrested in connection with the attack. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.
The dog, believed to be a bull breed, was seized by officers and remains in police kennels while the investigation continues.
Call for Responsible Ownership
Inspector Steve Usher issued a stark warning to all dog owners following the distressing incident. 'This incident should never happen and could have been avoided by responsible ownership,' he stated.
'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 lead,' Inspector Usher emphasised.
He further stressed that any dog has the potential to cause injury, urging owners not to become complacent. 'Do not think it won't happen to you, or your dog would never do that. Being a responsible owner is the difference between dogs causing fear and harm in our community.'
The community has been left shaken by the attack, which highlights the ongoing debate around dog control and public safety in shared spaces.
