The Kern County Sheriff's Department was investigating Tuesday evening's attack because of the severity of the boy's injuries. He was airlifted to Madera, where he was undergoing treatment at Children's Hospital.
The boy's parents were bitten by the dog while trying to stop the attack, said Kern County Animal Control spokeswoman Kim Rodriguez. They were able to free the boy but suffered hand injuries.
The family had the dog since it was a puppy, and Animal Control estimated it is now 3 to 5 years old.
"The message we're trying to get out is about responsible pet ownership, and it's not just about food and water and medical needs," Rodriguez said. "It's imperative to maintain control of your animals, not just for your family but for the community as a whole."
Investigators said the boy was alone with the unneutered dog and they do not know what prompted the attack.
Animal Control is keeping the gray and white dog under a 10-day quarantine while its future is decided.
(The Republic - May 30, 2012)
