A TODDLER has been bitten in the face by a vicious dog after she tried to stroke it.

The two-year-old girl suffered serious facial injuries in the attack, said police, who are now searching for the dog’s owner.

The girl was playing on a field off Yates Street, Leigh, when she went to stroke the dog, which is described as a white Staffordshire bull terrier.

The girl’s father saw her attempt to stroke the animal and went over to help when it bit her. The dog ran off after attacking the girl.

The youngster was taken to hospital for treatment to a puncture to her cheek, bruising to her jaw and tongue and other cuts to her face that required stitches. The girl spent three days at the Liverpool Children’s Hospital.

The incident happened at about 1.30pm on May 13.

PC Deby Johnson, from the Wigan Public Service Team, said: “This little girl has innocently gone to stroke a dog that has turned on her, causing some very nasty injuries.”

Police are carrying out inquiries to trace the dog and its owner.

It is believed the girl’s father may know who the owner is and is helping police with their inquiries.

PC Johnson said: “I would also urge anyone who saw this happen or knows who might own the dog to call me.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the Public Service Team on 0161 856 7040, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.