Dog on leash bites face of toddler at softball game

A dog attacked a 4-year-old boy at a softball game at Rosedale, Albany, yesterday.

The dog was on a lead when it bit the preschooler just below the eye. A police spokesman said the child was not seriously hurt. Officers were investigating.

Meanwhile, an 18-year-old who was mauled by a pitbull terrier during a domestic dispute in South Auckland on Friday is likely to remain in hospital for several more days.

The woman received serious wounds to the ear and face after the attack by the unregistered male pitbull.

Fears were initially held for her life, but she was later described as being in a satisfactory condition after a marathon operation to save her ear.

The dog remained locked in a Manukau City Council pound last night, pending a decision by the courts about whether it will be destroyed.