Rainham, Kent – A 3-year-old girl is recovering from surgery after being bitten by a dog while walking home from school with her father and siblings. The child’s father, Rowen Skinley, claims that the dog’s owner simply walked away without providing any details after the incident.
Incident Details
The dog attack occurred on Mierscourt Road in Rainham, Kent, on Tuesday, June 17, at approximately 3:30 p.m. The family was walking home after picking up the children from school when a Cockapoo – a crossbreed between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle – suddenly lunged at Bunnie Skinley, tearing her skin open with its bite.
According to Rowen, the path was narrow when a woman walked her dog on the road. Out of nowhere, the dog pulled Bunnie to the ground, and the owner managed to remove the dog, but not before causing serious injury. Rowen quickly stepped in, holding his daughter’s skin in place to stop the bleeding, with help from nearby witnesses.
Missing Owner and Investigation
What followed was even more troubling. Rowen says the dog’s owner “just disappeared” after the attack, without leaving any details or attempting to check on the child. Witnesses confirmed that the toddler hadn’t interacted with the dog before it attacked, and the owner failed to take responsibility or offer assistance.
The incident has raised concerns about dog safety, especially given the typical reputation of Cockapoos as family-friendly pets. Kent Police have launched an investigation into the attack and are asking for anyone with information or relevant footage to come forward.
Bunnie’s Recovery and Father’s Concerns
Following the attack, Bunnie underwent plastic surgery on her arm to repair the damage caused by the bite. Rowen expressed his concern about the procedure being riskier due to his daughter’s lung condition and severe asthma, but Bunnie is now recovering.
Despite her physical healing, Rowen said that she remains shaken by the experience and keeps talking about how scared she is of dogs.
The father also expressed frustration with the dog’s owner, stating, “It’s really upsetting that the woman didn’t stop because it makes you fear for the safety of other kids.” He’s concerned that if the woman had taken responsibility, it might have prevented further harm.
Legal Context and Dog Attacks in the U.K.
This attack has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of dog-related incidents in the U.K., where dog breed bans have been implemented to curb attacks. The government has banned several breeds, including XL Bullies and Pit Bull Terriers, after a rise in dog attacks across England and Wales.
Kent Police continue to investigate the incident and ask anyone who might have information, including CCTV or doorbell footage, to contact them.
