An investigation is ongoing in Arkansas after a baby girl was reportedly killed by the family dog on December 14.
Cave Springs Police Lieutenant Keith Lawson told Newsweek: "On Wednesday, December 14th, 2022, at approximately 12:20 PM the Cave Springs Police and Fire Departments responded to a call of a four-day-old female who had been bitten by the family dog, a three-year-old Siberian Husky. The infant suffered severe injuries to her head."
An estimated 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the U.S. and at least half of these are inflicted on children.
From 2010 to June 2021 430 fatal dog bites were recorded in the U.S. and the biggest percentage of victims who died as a result of dog-related injuries were those aged 0-4 years.
The child that suffered the attack was taken to Arkansas Children's Northwest Hospital in Springdale and then flown over 200 miles to Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock, where she later died of her injuries.
"The dog was seized by the police department and euthanized by a local veterinary service in accordance with state law. The Cave Springs Police Department is currently investigating the death, as is standard procedure in this type of incident," said Lieutenant Lawson.
"Once the investigation is complete it will be sent to the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney so they can make an informed decision if any violations of Arkansas Law were committed," he added.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) stresses the importance of exercising caution when bringing a new baby into a home with a dog.
"To make things go as smoothly as possible for everyone, it's important to take some time to prepare your dog for the arrival of your new addition," suggests the ASPCA.
The charity recommends taking time to teach your dog the skills they'll need to interact safely with a new family member, including ensuring adequate verbal control and training.
Similarly, it can be important to help your dog adjust to the changes and new experiences that come with a baby.
The ASPCA clarifies that babies and dogs should never be left alone together unsupervised.
On Tuesday two pit bull dogs were euthanized after 21 students and staff were injured during a dog attack at Willard Intermediate School-South in Missouri.
Six people required medical attention after two neighborhood dogs made their way into the playground during recess.
UPDATE 12/22/22 11.10 a.m. ET: This story was updated with additional information from law enforcement. The image was also updated to reflect this information.
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