Overview

• A seven-year-old underwent surgery after his family’s XL Bully attacked his neck in the kitchen on August 4.
• A nine-year-old in Doncaster suffered ear injuries when his family’s Shih Tzu mauled him later that evening.
• South Yorkshire Police recorded 15 calls reporting dogs dangerously out of control on August 4 and have seized both animals.
• A force spokesperson warned that any dog can bite and urged owners to understand their pets’ behaviour and provide a safe space.
• Warnings coincide with the start of the school holidays, when increased contact between children and household pets raises the risk of attacks.