Girl, 10, dies after attack by family dog

Parents pay heartbreaking tribute to daughter as police investigate

Emergency services were called to a property in Rochdale on Tuesday evening

A 10-year-old girl has died after being attacked by a dog in her own home, police have said. The girl, who has not been named, was attacked by the family dog at a property in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, on Tuesday evening.

Emergency services were called to the scene, but the girl was pronounced dead at the hospital. Her parents have paid a heartbreaking tribute to their daughter, describing her as a "beautiful, kind and loving girl".

The dog, which was a 10-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier, has been seized by police and is being held in kennels. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Chief Superintendent Chris Bowen, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "This is a truly tragic incident and our thoughts are with the girl's family at this difficult time."

"We are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and would ask anyone with information to come forward."

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been informed and will be carrying out an investigation into the incident.

The HSE has issued a warning to dog owners, reminding them of the importance of keeping their dogs under control and of the dangers of leaving children unsupervised with dogs.

The HSE website states: "Dogs can be unpredictable, even those that you know well. It is important to never leave a child unsupervised with a dog, even if the dog is usually gentle."

"Dogs can be territorial and may become aggressive if they feel threatened. Children should never approach a dog that they do not know, and should always ask the owner's permission before petting a dog."

The HSE also advises dog owners to:

• Keep your dog on a lead when in public places.
• Train your dog to obey basic commands.
• Socialize your dog from a young age.
• Neuter or spay your dog.
• Keep your dog's vaccinations up to date.

The Kennel Club also offers advice to dog owners on how to prevent dog bites. The Kennel Club website states: "The best way to prevent dog bites is to educate children about how to behave around dogs and to supervise them when they are interacting with dogs."

"It is also important to choose a dog that is suitable for your family and lifestyle, and to train and socialize your dog properly."

The Kennel Club also advises dog owners to:

• Teach children to never approach a dog that they do not know.
• Teach children to always ask the owner's permission before petting a dog.
• Teach children to never run or scream around dogs.
• Teach children to never leave food or toys unattended around dogs.

The death of the 10-year-old girl is a reminder of the importance of dog safety. Dog owners must take responsibility for their dogs and ensure that they are kept under control at all times.

Children should also be educated about how to behave around dogs and should never be left unsupervised with dogs.