Toddler receives 20 stitches after pitbull attack

A pitbull terrier. File photo / Chris Skelton

A three year-old girl has had 20 stitches in her face and almost lost an eye after being attacked by a pit-bull terrier in Wairoa.

Sergeant Matt King said the girl and her family were visiting a friend's home on Sunday.

He said the girl went into the backyard and the pit-bull "immediately set upon her".

"It has not been confirmed if the dog was tied up or running loose at the time," Mr King said.

He said the girl was taken to Wairoa Hospital and later transferred to Hawkes Bay Hospital.

"It was initially feared she may lose an eye as a result of the attack," Mr King said.

He said police were still talking to the family of the girl and the friends they were visiting at the time.

"A decision has not yet been made on whether charges will be laid," Mr King said.

The dog has been put down.

- NZHERALD STAFF