A child has been taken to hospital after being bitten by a dog in Southend Park, Sydenham, prompting a police investigation and the seizure of the animal involved.

Emergency services were called to the scene at 3.37pm on Sunday, March 23, following reports of the dog attack in the popular public park.

Emergency Response and Injuries

Officers from the Metropolitan Police arrived alongside London Ambulance Service paramedics, who treated the child at the scene before transporting them to hospital. Fortunately, the child’s injuries were later assessed as non-life-threatening, though the incident has raised safety concerns among local families and park users.

Dog Seized, Investigation Underway

The dog involved in the attack was seized by police at the scene. While no arrests have been made, officers have confirmed that enquiries into how the incident occurred are ongoing.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police Service said:

“On Sunday (March 23) police were called to Southend Park at 3.37pm following reports that a child had been bitten by a dog. Officers attended the scene alongside the London Ambulance Service who treated a child for dog bite wounds. The child was taken to a nearby hospital. Their injuries are non-life-threatening. The dog was seized by police at the scene. There were no arrests, and enquiries are ongoing.”

Community Concern

The incident has sparked concern in the local community, with residents expressing unease about dog control in public spaces. Several social media users have called for stricter leash regulations and more visible signage in parks, particularly where young children are likely to be playing.

One parent posted on a local Facebook group: “This is terrifying. I often take my little ones to Southend Park. I really hope the child is okay and that more is done to keep dogs under control.”

Ongoing Safety Measures

While the breed of the dog has not been confirmed, police say the animal will remain in their care as part of the investigation. It is not yet known whether the dog will be returned to its owner or face further action under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Residents are urged to remain cautious and report any dangerous dog behaviour to the police via 101, or in emergencies, call 999.

Further updates on the investigation will be released as they become available.