AN unregistered pit bull cross that allegedly “took the cheek off” a Frankston North woman is on death row at the council pound until Local Laws investigations are completed.
Council spokeswoman Sam Jackson said a seizure notice has been issued to the owner after the dog attack in Rosemary Crescent, Sunday 13 December.
The incident was reported to the council at 12.42pm and the dog seized by a council ranger at 12.59pm.
Contrary to early reports, the dog was not shot by either police or council officers. “Council officers do not carry firearms,” Ms Jackson said.
Police arrested the Frankston North dog owner at the scene. He was interviewed for unlawful assault and handling stolen goods but was later released, pending possible charges by summons.
Frankston Senior Sergeant Steve Burt said police were investigating the man “for offences prior to the dog attack” which may relate to a property dispute between himself and the woman.
The victim, 37, was forced to have surgery at Frankston Hospital. Emma McKnight told radio station 3AW that her dog, a Staffordshire bull terrier cross, was attacked on their morning walk when the pit bull came out of a gate.
She said she shielded her dog and the pit bull latched onto her arm.
“It lock-jawed onto my arm, I tried to get it off and it went for my face and took the cheek off my face.”
Ms McKnight said she needed 150 stitches and plastic surgery to repair her lacerated cheek.
She said the dangerous dog should be put down. “I wouldn’t even call it a dog, it’s a creature,” she said.
