‘Horrifying and traumatic’: Mother recounts Central Saanich dog attack

A Central Saanich mother is speaking out after an incident that she described as horrifying and traumatic which left both of her young sons seriously injured on Canada Day.

On Tuesday, Central Saanich Police confirmed officers responded to a serious dog attack involving two young children.

The children’s mother, Bryanne Pennington, said the attack happened while her family was out for a walk.

“This incident happened to my family and my children,” said Pennington. “This was the most horrifying and traumatic experience of our lives.”

She said a large Rottweiler ran from a yard, crossed the road and attacked her seven-year-old son without warning.

“An extended attack continued while we tried to defend ourselves and scream for help,” she said. “I shielded my children with my body the best I could while my husband tried to keep the dog away from us.”

Both of the family’s children suffered serious injuries during the attack.

Pennington said her youngest son, three-year-old Jordan, lost half of his ear and is continuing to undergo medical treatment. She said he is expected to require multiple surgeries as part of his recovery and has upcoming appointments with a plastic surgeon.

“The kids are doing as well as can be expected,” she told Victoria Buzz. “The physical wounds are healing. The mental ones will take some time.”

When asked whether the dog’s owner had contacted the family, Pennington said they are currently focused on helping their children recover.

“We are focused on our kids and their recovery right now,” she said.

She also expressed gratitude to bystanders who rushed to help during the attack.

“We are incredibly grateful to all the neighbours that helped our family that night and the many messages of concern and support,” Pennington said.

“Our kids are lucky to have so many people in their corner.”

According to police, the incident was traumatic for the children, their family and those who witnessed it. Investigators determined there had been no previous reports or dealings involving the dog or its owner by either Central Saanich Police or municipal bylaw services.

Following the attack, the Rottweiler was surrendered to CRD Animal Control. Victoria Buzz has since learned the dog has been euthanized.

Police are reminding the public that concerns about aggressive or dangerous dogs should be reported to CRD Animal Control so they can be investigated before a serious incident occurs.

“Early reporting may help identify and address risks before a serious incident occurs,” Central Saanich Police said in a statement.

Police also reminded pet owners that responsible ownership plays an important role in keeping the community safe.

The investigation remains ongoing.