Girl's serious injuries after dog attack in Kauri, Northland

The girl was in a serious condition and suffered serious facial injuries after the dog attack. Photo / 123RF

A 4-year-old girl has suffered serious facial injuries after being attacked by the family dog.

Police were called to an address in Kauri about 1.15pm yesterday after the girl was attacked by a pitbull shar pei cross, said Senior Sergeant Stephanie Hudson, of Whangarei police.

The girl was in a serious condition and suffered serious facial injuries.

Police understood her family drove her to the St John Ambulance Station on Western Hills Drive where she was then transported by ambulance to Whangarei Hospital.

Grant Couchman, Whangarei District Council regulatory services manager, said animal control went to the scene and the unregistered dog, which was the family pet, was surrendered by the family.

"Animal control are completing an investigation of the incident and once this has been completed then course of action going forward can be determined. Police are also involved in the investigation," Couchman said.

A Whangarei Hospital spokeswoman said the girl was in a stable condition and was still being assessed as of yesterday afternoon.