Warning to South Yorkshire parents after dog attacks on four kids

The youngest child involved in the incidents over the weekend of September 8 and 9 was aged just two.

South Yorkshire Police received between 140 to 185 calls a month about dogs being out of control or causing injury or fear.

The force has urged parents to stop thinking “it won’t ever happen to my children” and put safety measures in place.

Dog legislation officer PC Paul Jameson said: “Nationally, and within South Yorkshire, we are seeing an increase in dangerous dog incidents and the severity of the risk they pose to members of the public.

“We have seen innocent children at the receiving end of these dogs’ violent capabilities. One incident, which hospitalised a 15-year-old girl, involved an XL Bully that has been reported to have allegedly showed aggression previously and has been left unreported, without intervention.

“We are not only urging parents to think about their own dogs and their children’s behaviour around them, but to also report concerns you may have around dogs in the community, especially where vulnerable people live.

“We are not here to seize family pets, but we will intervene if the dog poses a risk and work alongside the owners, with partners and charities, to ensure the dog’s behaviour is addressed.”

Safety tips include always supervising dogs with children, encouraging youngsters to stroke gently but not pull, grab or sit on dogs.

Kids should not be allowed near dogs that are eating, sleeping or frightened.

Concerns can be reported on 101 or to Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.