The killing of a three year old toddler by a group of bull mastiffs yesterday again should be a major warning to every family who has a dog and young children Kidsafe Victoria said today.

Dr Mark Stokes, President of Kidsafe Victoria said, ”dogs and young children especially babies and toddlers do not mix and dog attacks can leave children disfigured for life as well as being fatal. “ 

A recent survey of councils in Victoria found there were 3300 reported dog attacks in one year - that's about 63 incidents a week, or nine attacks a day according to media reports.

A report by the Monash University Accident Research Centre in concluded  “Dog bite is a substantial public health problem in Victoria, with approximately 435 hospital admissions for dog bite injury reported each year and a further 1,260 hospital emergency presentations”

“Young children under five should not be left unsupervised with dogs including family pets.”  

Dr Stokes said,” it is quite clear that  certain breeds of dogs which have been bred for hunting should not be anywhere near babies and young children a stance which has been well promoted by the RSPCA.

“Dr Stokes said,” Kidsafe believed the community is not aware of the number of reported dog attacks which take place within each local government area and called for a monthly tally to be publicly released similar to the road toll by councils each month. “

“As a community we need to become far more aware of the dangers of dogs with babies and young children.” 

“A monthly report on the number of dog attacks in each council area and a state wide figure would at least provide an indication of the problem.”