Call 850-434-3333
Free Consultations LET'S TALK

Baby dies after being attacked by family dog

On behalf of Terence Gross of Gross & Schuster, P.A. posted in Dog Bites on Monday, September 12, 2011.

It’s extremely important to never leave a dog, even a beloved family pet, alone with a newborn. Even if the dog is generally well-behaved, such a situation could lead to a tragedy. It’s best to take all precautions necessary to avoid serious dog bites.

Sadly, a 2-week old boy was pronounced dead last week after the family dog, a Labrador mix, sniffed the baby who was in a carrier on the floor and started mauling him.

According to Chron.com, the baby’s mother was outside the house at the time and was watching through a window as her baby was attacked. Apparently the dog had entered the same room as the baby by pushing his way through a set of doors. Family members in the house pulled the dog off the baby and called 911. The infant was transported by rescue helicopter to an area hospital, but died of the wounds about five hours later.

Sheriff Deputies investigating the incident would not reveal the name of the family, but were continuing to interview them about the incident. A neighbor expressed concern for the dead infant’s parents who had only recently moved into the rented house.

Animal experts commenting on the case did say that even the family pet, without a history of aggressive behavior, can attack without warning. They say that an unfamiliar-smelling and noisy infant could pique the interest of the animal who will likely investigate.

Experts also say that the family pet, no matter how trustworthy, should never be left alone with a newborn. They say that an animal has to get used to a newcomer to the family. They also say that fatal attacks against babies are a rare occurrence.

Investigators are trying to determine if the death happened as the result of negligence or if the infant’s death was just an unfortunate accident.

Source: Chron.com, “Newborn dead after family dog attacks,” Hallie Jordan and Anita Hassan, Sept. 5, 2011

Get Answers Contact Us Now No pressure. Speak to an attorney. No Hidden fees.
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Come See Us Our Locations
Main Office:
Pensacola, FL

803 N Palafox St.
Pensacola, FL 32501
Phone: 850-434-3333

Start Live Chat? yes No