Toddler dies after being mauled by two dogs at NSW motel

Tara Meakins
Updated ·2-min read

A two-year-old boy has died after he was attacked by two dogs at a motel in a remote NSW town

Emergency services got the call for help just before 10.30am on Tuesday to the Country Gardens Motor Inn in Cowra in the Central West region following reports a toddler had been bitten.

“Officers from Chifley Police District attended and located a two-year-old boy with serious injuries to his face and neck,” police said in a statement.

The Country Gardens Motor Inn in Cowra.
Police were called to the Country Gardens Motor Inn in Cowra at 10.20am on Tuesday after getting reports that a toddler had been attacked by two dogs. Source: Country Gardens Motor Inn

According to a spokesperson a member of the public rushed him to Cowra Hospital in a critical condition before he was airlifted to hospital in Sydney.

"The boy was airlifted to Westmead Hospital where he died a short time ago," NSW Police said. "A crime scene was established at the motel, which continues to be examined by specialist officers."

Police added that both dogs had been seized by the local council following the attack and officers had established a crime scene at the motel on Grenfell Road as they continue their investigations.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

No pets policy

The Country Gardens Motor Inn is described on its website as being a “clean and peaceful” motel located on the edge of town in the “quietest, most peaceful part of Cowra.”

It is advertised as being a short drive to local restaurants, cafes and clubs with a range of accommodation available for “the business, corporate and pleasure traveller.” However, listed among the ‘need to know’ items online is that pets are not allowed.

Yahoo News Australia contacted the Country Gardens Motor Inn but the motel declined to comment.

An ambulance (left) and the Country Gardens Motor Inn (right).
The two-year-old was rushed from the scene to Cowra hospital in a critical condition before he was airlifted to Sydney for treatment. Source: NSW Ambulance/Country Gardens Motor Inn

Little girl attacked just two days earlier

The viscous attack comes two days after a little girl in Sydney’s south was set upon by a dog.

The seven-year-old was walking through Bardwell Valley on Sunday with her mum when the pair were approached by a dog off a lead.

The little girl could be heard screaming in terror as she tried to run away from the dog who could be seen repeatedly jumping up at her. Fortunately she escaped with just a few scratches while social media users claim the canine was showing no signs of aggression and just wanted to play.

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