A baby boy has been rushed to hospital in a serious condition after being mauled by a dog on the New South Wales Central Coast. The infant suffered significant facial injuries in the terrifying attack, which occurred on Tuesday evening.
Emergency Response to Bolton Street Incident
Emergency services were called to Bolton Street in Bateau Bay at approximately 5:30pm on Tuesday following reports of the dog attack. Paramedics treated the young child at the scene for his serious injuries before a CareFlight rescue helicopter was deployed.
The helicopter landed at the nearby Pat Morley Oval to facilitate a rapid transfer. The boy was then airlifted to the Children’s Hospital at Westmead in a stable condition, where he remains under medical care.
A Disturbing Pattern of Attacks
This latest incident is part of a concerning series of dog attacks across the state. Just one day prior, on Monday night, two adults and a boy were attacked by a dog in Raymond Terrace in the Hunter Region.
NSW Police reported that a dog described as a Staffordshire Bull Terrier-Mastiff cross was "on the loose attacking people" on Scott Close around 11pm. A couple was ambushed while walking along the street.
Furthermore, on November 12, a 66-year-old woman suffered severe leg injuries after being set upon by two dogs near The Entrance Club. Her daughter, Kylie Brooks, told 2GB that four dogs were roaming without leads in an empty paddock.
"At first she thought 'oh they’re a bit friendly' ... And they just went for her," Ms Brooks said. "She’s a small lady, incredibly active, this has just destroyed her." The victim required multiple surgeries at Gosford Hospital.
Community Safety and Ongoing Concerns
These consecutive attacks have raised urgent questions about dog control and public safety in NSW communities. The rapid escalation from the Hunter Region to the Central Coast within 24 hours highlights a potentially widespread issue.
The use of a critical care helicopter underscores the severity of the infant's injuries and the urgency of the medical response. Authorities are likely to review local regulations and owner responsibilities in the wake of these traumatic events.
The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any threatening animals to local council rangers or police immediately.
