7:10am Friday 30th July 2010
DOG owners are being urged to keep their pets muzzled if they are unsure of their temperament after an attack on a nine-year-old in Colindale.
The youngster, who was walking with his mum in Edgware Road, suffered bite and scratch marks to his chest when one of two Staffordshire Bull Terriers being walked the opposite way jumped at him.
Another witness, who saw the attack at about 1pm on Friday, close to McDonalds, asked the owner to stop and leave his details but he left the scene.
He is described as between 55 to 60-years-old, with grey hair and beard.
Sergeant Byrne, from the Colindale Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "Luckily there was only very minor harm inflicted on the young boy in this instance, but it is clear that the situation could have easily been much worse had the dog reached his face or neck.
“Dog owners need to be certain of their animals' temperament and in the interest of the general public, as well as ultimately their own dog, they must be leashed and muzzled if there is any doubt.
“The consequences of serious dog attacks are severe for victims who suffer such an attack, as well as the dog as a court can make an order for the animal's destruction under current legislation, and the owner who can face prison, so everyone loses out."
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