Dog owner in court over attack on toddler

File photo / NZ Herald

One of the two people charged in relation to a dog attack on a Tauranga preschooler in Merivale last month has had her identity suppressed on hardship grounds.

Chef Anthony Hedgman, 32, and a woman, who has been granted interim name suppression, faced a joint charge of being the owner of a Bull Mastiff which attacked a child and caused serious injuries, when they appeared in Tauranga Registrar's Court today.

The attack is alleged to have occurred while Charlie Pokai, 4, was visiting a friend's home on July 12 this year.

The youngster was treated for a puncture mark to the side of his head, a partially severed lip, and a puncture wound below his nose.

The two defendants who are yet to plead to the charge have been remanded at large.

They are due back in court on August 29.