09/02/2009

Tragic Jaden's Family Issue Dog Safety Warning

The family of a three-month-old baby, who was mauled to death by his grandmother's two pet dogs, have warned others with young children and dogs that "something like this is always possible".

Jaden Joseph Mack was savaged by a Jack Russell and a Staffordshire bull terrier at his grandparent's home in Ystrad Mynach, South Wales.

The infant was taken by ambulance from the house to the Prince Charles hospital in Merthyr Tydfil, where he was pronounced dead, shortly after midnight on Friday night.

The dogs have since been humanely destroyed.

Jaden is the fourth child to be killed by dogs in less than three years, prompting calls for lawmakers to re-examine the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act.

Former Welsh First Secretary and ex-Home Office minister Alun Michael said it should be reviewed to "see whether it's fit for purpose and, if not, what amendments can we make to strengthen its shortcomings".

Others appealed for greater education for dog owners.

In statement, the family said: "We would like to stress to all families with young children and pet dogs that no matter how much trust you have in your dog, something like this is always possible.

"We never thought it could happen to us, but we are now grieving the loss of our 'little man' who will always be in our hearts and loved very much by all of his family and friends."

It is reported the baby is the only child of a couple, named locally as Chris and Alexandra, who were married a year ago.

Police said they are continuing to investigate on behalf of the coroner. No arrests have been made.

In a statement, police said the two dogs "were removed from the property immediately after the incident and they have now been humanely destroyed".

(JM/BMcC)

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