Photo: RUSA
Warning! Graphic photo! The man who was attacked by two Pitbulls was found bleeding profusely from an injury to his right leg.
Photo: RUSA
A 71-year-old man was seriously injured after he was attacked by two Pitbulls on Tuesday in Grange in KwaZulu-Natal.
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) spokesperson Prem Balram said it is believed the two Pitbulls belong to the neighbour of the injured man.
“Residents in the area contacted Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) at approximately 13:24 requesting urgent assistance for the elderly man.
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“Reaction Officers and Medics were dispatched to the property and on arrival located the man seated in the yard. He was bleeding profusely from an injury to his right leg.”
Balram said first responders were forced to break the lock on the gate to gain entry onto the premises and access the male due to him not having keys with him.
“The victim explained that he was walking along the boundary wall when the two Pitbulls belonging to his neighbor attacked him. He managed to walk to the front of the property and alert other residents.”
The injured man was stabilised on the scene before being transported to the hospital by ambulance.
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“Several residents complained that the dogs were temperamental and previously attacked their pets.”
Heinrich Africa, ER24 Branch Operations Manager, said if a dog attacks you, try not to scream or panic.
“Instead, fall to the ground, roll into a ball, cover your neck and ears with your hands and remain motionless.
“Even if your injuries are minor, seek medical attention as a tetanus shot is often required, and there may be a requirement to provide preventative measures against rabies.”
Essential advice from the Animal Anti-Cruelty League:
“Remember, as a dog owner, you’re responsible for training your dog and keeping it under control at all times. You are the first line of defence in preventing dog bites.”