The family of a three-year-old boy have released pictures of his injuries after he was mauled by a stray dog.
The toddler was attacked by a black lurcher-type dog while he walked with his father in Birkinhead, Liverpool.
His family released the pictures to warn others of the danger of dog attacks and help police track down the animal.
Emergency services were called to Birkinhead on Monday, to reports a child had been bitten by a dog.
The boy was taken to hospital, where he underwent surgery and continues to be treated for injuries to his face.
Neighbourhood Inspector Georgie Minnery said: “As you can see from the pictures, this was a particularly nasty bite on a little boy who was just walking with his dad.
"Residents should be able to feel safe in the community and as such we treat all incidents of this nature very seriously."
He added: "We are carrying out a number of enquiries in the area to try and trace this dog, and its owner (if it has one).
"If anyone from the local community has seen this dog, I'd urge you to get in contact."
Anyone who has information is urged to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
.png?w=600)
