Miami Gardens, Florida – A 2-year-old boy was hospitalized Tuesday evening after being bitten in the face by a dog while playing in the backyard of his family’s home, according to local authorities.
Officers with the Miami Gardens Police Department responded shortly before 7 p.m. to a home located in the 3600 block of Northwest 191st Street after receiving a report of a dog bite involving a toddler.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and began medical treatment for the child before arranging emergency transportation to a nearby hospital.
Police said the young boy was in the backyard when the dog bite occurred, leaving him with injuries to his face.
Child Airlifted for Emergency Medical Care
Officials confirmed that Miami-Dade Fire Rescue transported the toddler by helicopter to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital for immediate medical attention.
After doctors evaluated his condition, the child was later transferred to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where officials reported he was in stable condition.
Authorities said the toddler was hospitalized with facial injuries but is currently in stable condition.
Emergency responders said the quick airlift was necessary to ensure the child received specialized treatment as soon as possible.
Family Dog Involved in the Incident
Investigators said the dog involved in the bite was a family pet that lived at the home.
Initial reports suggested that two pit bulls may have been involved, but police later clarified that only one dog was responsible for the bite.
Authorities believe the incident appears to have been an accidental attack, though investigators are still reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police say they are still trying to determine what may have led up to the dog bite.
Animal Services Takes Custody of Dogs
Officials with Miami-Dade Animal Services visited the home the following day as part of the investigation.
Authorities confirmed that two pit bulls belonging to the family were taken from the property.
Although investigators have not determined exactly which dog was responsible for the bite, the owners reportedly surrendered both animals to Animal Services.
Officials said the surrendered dogs were expected to be euthanized following the incident.
Animal Services officers collected the animals while continuing to review the details of the case.
Parents Will Not Face Charges
According to police, the child’s parents will not face criminal charges related to the incident.
Investigators say there is currently no indication of criminal wrongdoing by the family.
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Officials described the situation as a tragic accident involving a household pet.
Officials Urge Pet Owners to Take Precautions
Authorities say the incident serves as a reminder for pet owners to carefully supervise interactions between dogs and young children.
Miami Gardens Police spokesperson Diana Delgado said dog owners should always consider their pet’s behavior and temperament around children.
“If you know the temperament of your dog, be mindful and keep your dog away from children,” Delgado said.
Officials encourage families to take precautions to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
What are your thoughts on how families can prevent dog bite incidents involving children? Share your views respectfully in the comments and join the conversation.
