A toddler has suffered serious facial injuries after being savaged by a dog in Fife.
The two-year-old may need surgery after the horrific attack by what police described as a dog similar to a Staffordshire Pitbull Terrier in Leven town centre on Wednesday.
The youngster’s horrified mother could only watch as the unaccompanied dog attacked her daughter in a car park at Kirkside Court, just off Durie Street.
The pair had been standing with a family friend just after 5pm when the shocking incident happened.
The toddler suffered injuries to her chin, mouth and nose and a gash to her eye.
She was taken to Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy, for treatment and while her injuries are not as serious as first thought, it is understood surgery is still a possibility.
Police said neither the dog nor its owner had been identified.
Officers have appealed for anyone for information to help them find the animal and its owner.
Local councillor Tom Adams said he was deeply shocked to hear of the attack.
“The dog’s owner needs to be caught as quickly as possible and justice served,” he said.
“We can’t have a dangerous dog like that roaming the streets. It’s terrible and I would condemn it to high heaven.”
He added: “I really feel for the wee girl and her family and I hope she’s going to be all right.”
Local people said there were a lot of dogs in the area of Leven High Street.
One woman said: “I just hope they trace the owner and the dog and pray the wee one is okay.”
The dog involved is described as medium-sized. It was black with a white underside and a full length tail.
It also had a white tail tip and was wearing a red collar with reflective markings.
Sergeant Craig Fyall of Levenmouth police station said: “This was horrific attack on a toddler, who has had to be hospitalised as a result of this incident.
“Fortunately, the injuries are not likely to lead to permanent disfigurement.
“Nevertheless, it is important that we trace this dog and its owner as soon as possible.”
Anyone who witnessed the attack or recognises the description of the dog should contact police on 101 immediately.
