Boy, 3, dies after dog attack

AUSTRALIA -- A young Queensland boy has died in hospital after being attacked by his grandfather’s dog at the weekend.

Three-year-old Korbin Sprott was in a critical condition in Townsville Hospital after being attacked by a German Shepherd.

He had been playing in the front yard of a Grant Street home in Mackay when he was attacked by the dog about 6.45pm on Saturday.

His grandfather suffered bite wounds to his forearm after he intervened.

Family and neighbours rushed to the toddler's aid, trying frantically to stem the bleeding from a punctured artery in his neck.

The three-year-old was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital and then on to Townsville Hospital in a critical condition.

Mackay Regional Council impounded the dog at the request of the police on Saturday night.

The Mackay Daily Mercury has reported the family has since signed an indemnity form requesting the dog be put down.

Initial reports said the boy had been flown to Brisbane Mater Children's Hospital. A spokeswoman for the Mater Children's Hospital on Sunday confirmed that information was incorrect.

Since the attack dozens of people in Townsville have donated food and money to the family.

Police are investigating the incident.

(brisbanetimes.com.au - October 29, 2013)