CALIFORNIA -- Deputies responded to a report of a vicious dog at the intersection of Orange Blossom Drive and Allium Lane, in the unincorporated area of French Valley.
Deputies located an 11-year-old male who sustained bite wounds from a Pit-Bull/Boxer mixed breed animal, which was subsequently shot by the victim's father.
The dog belonged to a neighbor, and had broken free from its leash to attack the boy. The boy's father retrieved his handgun when he observed the initial attack, and fired one shot at the animal when it lunged towards him. The dog was struck but not mortally wounded, and was able to flee to its nearby home.
Riverside County Animal Control officers responded to take custody of the animal for destruction. The victim was treated at a local hospital for his injuries, and is expected to make a full recovery.
Criminal charges are not anticipated in this matter.
The Riverside County Sheriff's Department would like to remind the public to be mindful of keeping pets on suitable leashes while in public areas. Citizens are also reminded to be wary of domesticated animals they are not familiar with, and to closely supervise both children and pets.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, Southwest Station, at 951-696-3000.
(Valley News - April 7, 2012)
