The mother of a young girl left with life-changing injuries after she was mauled by a dog has shared pictures of her scratches in a bid to raise awareness.
The 12-year-old had been exiting a car with her dad when the family claimed the dog came ‘out of the blue’, reports WalesOnline.
Cops claim they were called to The Crescent, Nantyglo, Brynmawr, at around 5.50pm on Monday 7 October, following reports of a dog attack.
The girl’s family, who have asked to remain anonymous, have revealed how the schoolgirl received serious injuries to her arm and back in the attack that happened in a “split second”.
Her dad managed to get ahold of the dog and keep it down as they waited for the police.
The family that the animal hadn’t been on a lead and didn’t have a collar when it attacked.
Their heartbroken daughter is now waiting to undergo surgery for the injuries on her arm, which may require a skin graft from her leg. She also sustained injuries to her back.
The girl’s mum, who claimed the dog appeared to be an XL Bully type, is now calling for all responsible owners to register, muzzle and ensure dangerous dogs are on a lead.
She said: “My daughter had just got out of the car with her dad when the dog came out of the blue. I was at home and a neighbour came to tell me something had happened.
“My daughter is going to be scarred physically and mentally for life, a few inches higher or a couple of millimetres deeper she would be dead. I am a dog owner myself and can’t fathom how people have such a blatant disregard for life. I just want others to realise that they need to be responsible.
“I also want people who let their kids out to make sure they tell them to be extra aware of their surroundings as this happened in a split second and with an adult around. Smaller children wouldn’t have had a chance.”
Police have confirmed that the dog involved has been humanely destroyed by a veterinary surgeon. A 37-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman, both from the Brynmawr area, have been arrested on suspicion of owning or possessing a dog bred for fighting and owning or possessing a dog dangerously out of control.
Superintendent John Davies said: “This was a distressing incident for those involved. I would like to reassure the local community there is no further risk to the public. It is possible that you may see ongoing police activity in Nantyglo as part of this work. If you have concerns or information, please stop and talk with us. “
Anyone with information is asked to report through the Gwent Police website, direct message them on social media, or call them on 101, quoting reference 2400334368. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.
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