'Deeply distressing' - Police reveal series of dog attacks involving children and adults this week
Armed police have been called out to a series of ‘deeply distressing’ dog attacks on adults and children in the last week, police in Yorkshire have said.
South Yorkshire Police has urged owners to take responsibility for their dogs and ensure the pets are properly controlled.
The force said it fears it is only a matter of time before another fatal dog attack happens on its patch.
It has released details of several attacks which have happened in the last week. It said it has received 39 reports of dogs causing fear or harm since November 8.
They include:
November 10 - emergency services attended a property in Bolton-Upon-Dearne after a family dog, a Pocket Bully, savaged a man’s face, leaving him with life-altering injuries.
November 11 - at 10pm officers responded to the Ecclesfield area of Sheffield after a two-year-old child was attacked by a neighbours Pocket Bully, causing injury to the child’s face.
November 12 - armed officers responded to the Firth Park area of Sheffield after a caller was in fear of her life, after her Cane Corso was going ‘berserk’ and acting aggressively.
November 13 - armed officers descended to the Fox Hill Road area of Sheffield after a woman walking her dogs was aggressively approached and attacked by a loose Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Officers managed to corral the dog and capture it.
November 13 - emergency services attended East Herringthorpe in Rotherham after a seven-year-old had their face attacked by a family Jack Russel. The child required surgery to their lips.
A statement issued by South Yorkshire Police said: “This week, our response and armed officers have responded to a series of deeply distressing dog attacks involving both children and adults across South Yorkshire.
“In several cases, officers have put themselves directly in harms way to contain aggressive animals and protect the public. These incidents are a stark reminder that such attacks are preventable — and that responsible dog ownership is not optional, it’s essential.
“As we head into the weekend, with children off school and families gathering, we are urging everyone to take responsibility and ensure their pets are properly controlled.
“We have already seen fatal dog attacks in South Yorkshire and we fear it may only be a matter of time before another life is lost if action isn’t taken.
“These are not isolated events — they are part of a growing and deeply concerning trend. We need every dog owner to take this seriously. Secure your pets, talk to your children, let’s work together to prevent further harm.”