Warning to dog owners after child attacked by Rottweiler

Police are reminding dog owners to take appropriate steps to ensure their dogs are under control when out walking.

The advice follows an incident in Brandon last month, where a toddler sustained minor injuries.

The incident took place between 2.45pm and 3.15pm on Saturday, March 22, along the path off Church Road that runs between Brandon Leisure Centre and along the river.

A woman in her 50s was walking her grandchildren in a double buggy when they were approached by another woman walking a black Rottweiler-type dog on a long lead.

The woman with the dog moved to the side to allow the buggy to pass, however the dog jumped up and ripped one of the children’s clothing, scratching his arm in the process.

The victim, a two-year-old boy, sustained minor injury and attended West Suffolk Hospital, in Bury St Edmunds, where he received antibiotics as a precaution.

Police would like to trace the woman with the dog and speak with her regarding the incident.

She is described as tall and slim, with dark hair which she wore in a ponytail and she spoke with an American accent.

Police are also urging dog owners to be mindful of their surroundings, and are reminding them that a short lead is always advisable from a safety perspective, as it is easier to control a dog on a short lead, particularly as many can be unpredictable around people, other animals and vehicles.

For more information regarding responsible dog ownership please refer to the Suffolk Police website: https://www.suffolk.police.uk/sites/suffolk/files/dangerousdogs_1.pdf

Anybody with any information please contact Suffolk Police quoting reference 37/17909/22.

Website – http://www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us/existing-report-update

Email – libby.appleyard2@suffolk.police.uk

Phone – Call 101.

Crimestoppers – Contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form: www.crimestoppers-uk.org