A toddler has been rushed to hospital with arm and head injuries after being attacked by a dog—believed to be a pitbull-cross—at a birthday party in Stockton-on-Tees.

Emergency services were called to a property on Chopwell Close, in the Hardwick area, on Saturday afternoon following reports that a young child, aged between two and three, had been mauled by a dog.

Cleveland Police confirmed that officers attended the scene and safely seized the animal, which has now been taken to a specialist kennel while investigations are ongoing.

A spokesperson for the force said:

“Police were called to a property on Chopwell Close in Hardwick, Stockton, this afternoon after it was reported that a child had been attacked by a dog.
Officers attended the scene and secured the dog safely, without any harm to the animal, and removed it from the premises.
The child has been taken to hospital for treatment for arm and head injuries.
Police remain at the scene of the incident whilst enquiries continue.”

The child was transported to the University Hospital of North Tees. Fortunately, police have confirmed the injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Although the breed of the dog has not been officially confirmed, witnesses at the scene have described the animal as a pitbull-type crossbreed.

The incident has raised renewed concerns about dangerous dogs at private events, particularly around children. Neighbours expressed shock, with one witness stating:

“It was meant to be a happy occasion. No one expected something like this to happen.”

Local authorities and the RSPCA have been notified, and the investigation will determine whether any offences have been committed under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting the incident reference.