United Kingdom: Girl, two, is hospitalized after she was bitten on the FACE by a black Labrador on a crowded beach before the dog was fought off by the child's grandmother

UNITED KINGDOM -- A two-year-old girl was rushed to hospital with serious facial injuries after she was attacked by a dog on a beach.

The toddler was on Troon beach in South Ayrshire with her grandmother and their family dog on Saturday morning when they were approached by what has been described as a 'black Labrador cross'.

The roaming dog - which was unaccompanied and without a lead - then bit the child on her face, inflicting serious wounds before being fought off by her grandmother.

The animal then fled the area.

Police said the youngster was taken to Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for treatment and medical staff have today described her condition as 'stable'.

The dog is described as a black Labrador cross, which was groomed and appeared well looked after.

It may have suffered injuries when the woman fought it off.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the attack, which happened around 10am, to come forward.

Constable David Murdoch, of Troon police office, said: 'A young girl has been seriously injured by a dog which was off its lead and not the in the presence of any owner. I would appeal to anyone who either witnessed the incident or has seen a black dog in the area of Troon beach on Saturday morning to get in contact with police officers.'

Anyone with information can contact police on the 101 number. Alternatively, the Crimestoppers charity can be reached on 0800 555 111, where information can be given in confidence.

(Daily Mail - Sept 19, 2016)