Boy, dad mauled in dog attack
A man had his hand ripped apart as he tried to save his son from a vicious dog attack in Como yesterday.
Jai Cooper was riding his scooter on the driveway of their Wooltana Street home when a neighbour’s dog jumped a fence from its yard.
Step-mother Larissa Miller said the dog latched on to the nine-year-old’s arm.
Her partner and Jai’s dad, David Cooper, tried to fight off the dog.
The dog then started attacking Mr Cooper, ripping apart his hand.
Doctors spent several hours today trying to save Mr Cooper’s thumb after he sustained serious hand and side wounds.
Jai is recovering in Princess Margaret Hospital after surgery for arm injuries.
Ms Miller said she was grateful to all the people who had helped them.
She has called for the dog to be destroyed.
Rangers seized the dog, believed to be an American bulldog, after the attack.
City of South Perth chief executive Cliff Frewing said the council and police are investigating the incident.
Under the WA Dog Act, owners of a dog that chases or attacks a person or animal can be prosecuted and if found liable, can face a $10,000 fine and the dog may be destroyed.
