A Calgary child is recovering in hospital after being attacked by two large dogs on Tuesday.
Police confirm the attack happened at around 3:10 p.m. in the 0 to 100 block of Castleridge Way N.E.
Investigators said the four-year-old boy was initially in life-threatening condition but is now listed in serious condition at Alberta Children’s Hospital.
Officials confirm the child was attacked in the backyard.
Paramedics said the child had injuries on his entire body including punctures, tears and bites.
“Certainly this was an incident that was nothing less than disturbing for our staff to contend with,” Stuart Brideaux, a spokesperson for Calgary EMS, said.
“It was a magnitude of bite wounds and injuries that we have not seen in quite a substantial period of time.”
On Wednesday the City of Calgary said two tickets had been issued against the owner of the dogs under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw. The maximum fine is $10,000.
Both German Shepherds, a male and female, were seized by Calgary Community Standards, which is leading the investigation.
The animals are being held pending a hearing which will determine if they are vicious and should be euthanized.
The northeast home had multiple “beware of dog” signs posted.
Neighbour Renny Chapman said he’s seen the dogs many times in the neighbourhood.
“They’ve got out a couple of times but honestly, they didn’t seem vicious or anything,” he said.
Chapman added he would be concerned if the dogs would be returned to the community.
“Nobody wants a vicious dog in their neighbourhood,” he said.
EMS said the victim will require significant treatment.
Animal Services says the dogs will be held for an 11-day quarantine.