A 5-year-old girl was killed in a dog bite incident in Covina after two of her family’s dogs attacked her in the backyard. According to a report in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune, the fatal dog attack occurred in an unincorporated area near Covina on Dec. 8.
Investigators said there were no prior incidents involving the dogs and that the girl grew up with them. It occurred in a gated community in the 2500 block of Palomino Drive. Police said the father, who is divorced from the girl’s mother, lived in the home.
Horrific Dog Attack and Ongoing Investigation
The girl and her father were in the backyard along with four family dogs—a 10-year-old rottweiler, a 6-year-old rottweiler/Weimaraner mix, a 10-year-old Weimaraner, and a 4-year-old Doberman. When the girl took a fall, the rottweiler and the rottweiler mix, immediately began to attack her.
The father dove on top of the child to shield his daughter from the dogs. Officials said the other two dogs were not involved in the attack.
The man yelled for help, and other home residents ran out to help. One of them called the authorities, and firefighters arrived at the home. The girl was transported with injuries to her upper torso and head, officials said. She succumbed to her injuries. It is not clear if her father was injured in the attack.
The county’s animal control manager told the Tribune that animal control officers had not been to the property prior to this incident. Officials took all four dogs on Sunday and will hold them in quarantine for 10 days. After that, officials said a hearing may be held if the dog’s owner wants them back.
The department’s investigation is still ongoing. We offer our deepest condolences to the family of this child for their tragic loss. They will be in our thoughts and prayers.
A Word About ‘Dangerous’ Dog Breeds
As personal injury attorneys who represent dog bite victims, we know and understand that a dog attack could involve any breed of dog. However, research over several decades has shown that some breeds have a greater propensity to attack. This is, of course, an issue that continues to be debated.
Owning a dangerous dog breed is a responsibility that demands careful consideration and dedication. Breeds commonly labeled as “dangerous,” such as pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers, have the potential to be good pets. In a number of cases, the attack may be attributed to negligent dog ownership. Responsible ownership begins with understanding the specific breed’s traits and needs.
Training and socialization from a young age are critical for any breed. A well-trained dog is less likely to display aggressive behavior and is better equipped to interact safely with humans and other animals. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are equally important, as bored or frustrated dogs may act out destructively.
Owners must also be aware of local regulations. Some jurisdictions impose restrictions or bans on owning certain breeds, and violations can result in fines or the removal of the pet. Liability insurance is often recommended to protect against potential legal or medical claims.
Protecting Children from Dog Attacks
Protecting children from dog attacks requires a proactive approach involving education, supervision, and proper dog management. While most dogs are friendly and safe, even pets that are accustomed to you can react unpredictably under certain circumstances. Teaching children how to behave around dogs is a critical first step.
Children should be taught the following basic rules for interacting with dogs:
- Always ask permission from the owner before approaching a dog.
- Avoid sudden movements and loud noises, as such behaviors can startle dogs.
- Never approach a dog eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
- Do not pull tails, ears, fur, or climb on dogs.
- Teach children to recognize signs of discomfort or aggression, such as growling, showing teeth or a stiff posture, and to back away calmly.
- Children should be taught to remain still, “like a tree,” if approached by an unfamiliar dog, and to curl into a ball to protect vital areas if knocked over.
Close supervision is essential, especially with younger children. Dogs and children should never be left unsupervised together, regardless of the dog’s temperament. Ensure dogs are on a leash or in a secure area when outdoors. At home, create designated spaces where dogs can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
Owners must train and socialize their dogs from a young age to be comfortable around children and other people. Basic obedience training can help prevent problematic behavior. Spaying or neutering dogs can also reduce aggression.
What to Do If Your Child Has Been Injured in a Dog Attack
If your child has been injured in a dog attack, there are a number of steps to protect their rights and help preserve their physical and emotional well-being. First, make sure you seek and get prompt medical attention and care. Visit a doctor or emergency room.
A medical professional should evaluate all dog bites, especially if the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, or shows signs of infection.
Make sure that your child’s vaccinations are up to date and verify the dog’s vaccination status if possible. Report the attack to local authorities to ensure the dog is properly assessed and the incident documented. Obtain the dog owner’s contact details and any witnesses’ accounts.
Children may feel scared or anxious after an attack. Provide emotional support and seek counseling if needed. If the injury was due to negligence or occurred in a public place or on another’s property, consider consulting a lawyer experienced in dog bite cases. They can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for medical bills and emotional trauma.
In California, strict liability laws govern dog bite cases under Civil Code Section 3342. This means dog owners are held legally responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of its aggressiveness.
Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization costs, psychological counseling, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Source: https://www.sgvtribune.com/2024/12/09/girl-5-killed-by-familys-dogs-in-backyard-attack-near-covina/
