toddler mauled By Families Pack Of Dogs – UPDATE

A 21-month-old south Georgia girl died in her backyard Wednesday after being mauled by a pack of dogs described as family pets. The family in question admitted to owning nine dogs – all pit bulls or pit bull mixes. The seven dogs involved in the attack were put down immediately by Bryan County Animal Control.

Police told the Savannah Morning News the girl’s grandmother was taking a nap when the attack occurred, and after being awakened by what must have been a horrific commotion, was unable to move quickly enough to stop the attack. Police were unclear as to how the toddler was able to get outside. They suggested, however, that it was possible that her 12-year-old brother either let her outside to play, or that she used the doggie door.

 

Emergency personnel arrived on the scene to find the girl covered in bite marks and were unable to revive her, reported WTOC.com in Georgia.

Bryan County Sheriff Clyde Smith indicated that the girl played with the dogs frequently, and he could not began to guess what may have caused them to suddenly attack her.

“When we got here and spoke to EMS, they told us that when they got here, she was already cold. There was nothing they could do,” Bryan County Deputy Sheriff James Beatty told The Savannah Morning News.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, its intimidating appearance has made the pit bull the pet of choice for “irresponsible owners interested in presenting a tough image (who) often encourage their pit bulls to behave aggressively.”

Police indicated that a full investigation is underway, but that it is to soon to know whether charges will be filed.