Dog euthanised after child suffers serious injuries in Christchurch attack

A dog has been euthanised after attacking a child in Christchurch, leaving them seriously injured.

Police were called shortly before midday Tuesday after the Breezes Rd incident in the eastern suburb of Aranui.

At the time, a Christchurch City Council spokesperson said Animal Management had seized a 6-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier cross.

Today, the council confirmed the dog was “euthanised after being surrendered for destruction by the owner”.

A passer-by, who did not wish to be named, told the Herald they heard a commotion coming from a property on Tuesday.

“We heard all this yelling and screaming coming from one of the houses,” he said.

“This guy was smacking a dog with a bit of wood.”

Hato Hone St John said it was notified at 11.56am of “an animal incident” and responded with a rapid response unit and an ambulance.

“Our ambulance staff treated one patient and transported them to Christchurch Public Hospital in a serious condition,” a spokesperson said.

Senior Sergeant Hamish Keer-Keer said on Tuesday that Animal Management had been notified.

The incident came weeks after a fatal dog attack in Aranui. Toddler Sonny-Charles, 1, died on August 14 at his family home after being bitten by a dog.

Police have confirmed no criminal charges will be laid in relation to the boy’s death.