Cane Corso X, Barnsley: Baby boy, aged 10 months, left requiring surgery after being savaged by family dog

A baby boy has been left requiring surgery, after being attacked by a family dog this morning.

The Cane Corso X dog, described as usually ‘loving and affectionate’ and having shown no previous signs of aggression, has left the 10-month-old boy in a serious condition.

The boy, who remains in hospital in a stable but serious condition, was at home with his family when their Cane Corso X attacked him as he started to cry. The incident was out of character for the dog, who has no previous history of aggression, and no reports of community concerns had been made to the police.

The owner of the dog described him as being ‘pleasant’ and ‘affectionate’ with children.

A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson said details of the attack are being shared as a reminder to parents that it can happen to anyone.

"We’re urging you to stop thinking ‘it won’t happen to me’ or ‘my dog wouldn’t do that’," the spokesperson

Dog Legislation Officer PC Paul Jameson added: “We were called at 7:42am this morning to a property in Hoyland, Barnsley following a young child being attacked and bitten by a family dog.

“Our early enquiries with the family highlighted that the dog was not previously reported to be of an aggressive nature, and this was a family who took precautions and are responsible owners.

“An incident like this is a stark reminder that regardless of a dog’s nature, or previous interactions with children, other dogs and people, they are animals and their innate instinct to protect themselves which can result in serious injuries and sometimes fatality."

The SYP spokesperson said that while talking with officers, the family expressed how recently, the dog had become stressed by fireworks being set off in the local area.

"While we cannot say this caused the dog’s aggressive, it cannot be overlooked that the stress to the dog may have provoked this response, in the same way pain and discomfort can."

"As we enter the dark nights period it’s important to be vigilant to a change in your dog’s behaviour and provide them with a space they feel safe, away from children and people," the spokesperson added.

PC Jameson continued: “If you know your dog does not accept people knocking at the door, put up a sign ahead of Halloween to stop people knocking.

“If your dog becomes unsettled when fireworks are set off, walk your dog in daylight hours, close the windows and draw your curtains to help muffle the sound and put the radio or TV on.

“Leave toys in the area your dog associates with feeling calm and safe.

“If you’re hosting a celebration, follow the tips on our leaflet to keep everyone in your home safe.”

For more information about dog safety, please visit Blue Cross Charity website: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/keeping-your-family-dog-and-visiting-children-safe