Four-Year-Old Attacked By Dog

Staff Writer

EDGEWOOD—A 4-year old boy was treated and released Wednesday evening after being attacked by a pit bull dog at a family member’s home.

Officer Randy Bowles of the Edgewood Police Department said the child suffered bites to the head, left shoulder, right forearm, abdomen and hand.

"The attack occurred on North Houston Street at another family member’s house. It is unknown at this time why the dog attacked, but we do know it was in the kennel area. He tried to pet it and that is when the dog attacked," Bowles said.

The boy was taken by his parent to Cozby-Germany Hospital, Bowles said. The dog has been placed in quarantine, he added.

Edgewood Police Chief Henry Askew said the incident underscores the need for caution when small children approach any dog. He added that the dog in this case may have been eating and misinterpreted the child’s action.

"People need to understand dogs can be dangerous and protective of their space and food. Especially when eating, they can be dangerous. Even if it is a family pet, there is no need to let a child around it when it is eating," Askew said.