3-year-old attacked by family member’s pit bull

Pit bulls are notoriously dangerous breeds and continue to raise concerns among policymakers, dog owners, parents and others who are exposed. A 3-year-old girl in New York was severely bitten in the face by her relative’s pit bull last week. The girl suffered very severe injuries, including lacerations and other facial damage. The dog has been taken into custody by animal control.

According to reports, a couple and their 3-year-old daughter were visiting their family members when the girl was attacked by her aunt’s pit bull. The parents of the child reported that the dog latched onto the girl’s face and did not let go until her father pried the pit bull’s jaws apart. The girl is in guarded condition at the hospital where doctor’s spent 7 hours stitching her wounds. In addition to lacerations and muscle damage, she also suffered a broken jaw and lost several teeth.

Children are often vulnerable to dog bites and animal attacks. They may approach an animal without caution or incite an animal because of their size and energy. They are also more vulnerable in the event of an attack. Dangerous breeds with a history of attacks should be leashed, and in some cases put down. In any case, it is up to the dog owner to make sure that a dog is leashed, muzzled, fenced, or generally unable to attack. In the event of a dog bite or animal attack, the owners could be held liable for negligence. If you or someone you love was attacked by an animal, you should consult with an experienced attorney who can review your case and pursue all negligent individuals or entitles.

Source: The Associated Press, “Rochester girl, 3, bitten in face by relative’s pit bull,” Sept. 4, 2012