KINROSS boy Louis Gray (12) needed 163 stitches, three skin grafts and a four-day hospital stay after a dog bit him on his right calf as he rode his scooter home from Kinross Skate Park.
His father Raymond said the incident was heartbreaking for his family and, several weeks later, Louis still needed weekly treatment at Princess Margaret Hospital, a 72km round trip from home.
“Every Friday, we drive 36km from home to hospital and 36km back so he can have the wound cleaned,” he said.
Louis, a Year 7 pupil at Kinross College, said the incident happened as he rode past a woman leading two dogs near the school.
“I used my brake to slow down to pass – there was no sound or anger from the dogs, then suddenly the dog bit me on the back of my right calf,” he said.
“I was so shocked and screamed with the pain and cried.”
Louis said he was too weak to walk home and in shock at seeing part of his calf missing when a family in a car stopped to help. He said the dog owner apologised and called her husband to pick up the dogs.
City of Joondalup chief executive Garry Hunt said the council was investigating the family’s complaint.
Mr Hunt said all local governments encouraged responsible pet ownership.
“The City is particularly proactive by undertaking doorknock programs throughout our suburbs to ensure the general public is aware of dog ownership responsibilities and what options are available if people experience a dog nuisance,” he said.
“People who are involved in or witness a dog attack should contact the City’s rangers on 9400 4960.”