The dog that attacked a two-year-old girl at Foini waterfalls is being held at a private animal facility and has a microchip showing registration as an American Staffordshire breed, with a veterinary examination set to determine its actual breed and aggressive tendencies.
The dog, owned by a 24-year-old woman who has been arrested, was not wearing a lead during Sunday’s attack. Police have requested veterinary services examine the animal and provide expert opinion on its breed and potential for aggression.
Veterinary services to examine dog for breed verification and aggression
According to information obtained by philenews, the dog is being held at a private animal facility (animal hotel) with a veterinary officer expected to examine it within the day.
The animal carries a microchip and is registered in the system as an American Staffordshire breed, which shares common ancestors with pit bulls and displays many similarities.
If the dog is found to belong to a prohibited breed and was declared as another breed, procedures provided by legislation will be followed. However, it is certain that the 24-year-old owner will face justice for charges of negligent and reckless acts.
Police received information around 11am on Sunday about a child injured by a dog in the Foini village area. Officers went to the scene where they established that the child, a two-year-old girl, was attacked and injured by a dog.
Two-year-old girl requires surgery after Sunday morning attack
The girl was transported by ambulance to Limassol General Hospital, where it was determined she had sustained leg injuries, and was subsequently transferred to Nicosia General Hospital, where she is expected to undergo surgery.
Her health condition is considered out of danger by treating doctors.
To facilitate investigations, the 24-year-old guardian of the dog was arrested and detained. She was present in the area where the incident occurred.