A 17-year-old girl, Annalyse Blyton, tragically passed away after being attacked by a large mixed-breed dog while visiting a friend’s home in Singleton, New South Wales, on Thursday, September 4. At around 11:30 a.m. local time, emergency services responded to the scene on Broughton Street, where they found Blyton with critical injuries to her head, neck, and body. The dog responsible was a 10-year-old mix of boxer, bull Arab, and Irish wolfhound.
The Attack and Response
The dog was reportedly in a fenced yard at the home of the friend Blyton was visiting. Bystanders acted quickly, pulling the dog off Blyton and calling for help. NSW Ambulance paramedics treated Blyton on-site before airlifting her to John Hunter Hospital. Despite their efforts, she succumbed to her injuries on Monday, September 8. The dog was euthanized by police with the owner’s permission.
Community Outpouring of Support
The local community has expressed deep sorrow following Blyton’s death, with tributes pouring in from friends, family, and classmates. Blyton was a student at Singleton High School, and a Department for Education spokesperson offered condolences, stating that support would be provided to students and staff at the school during this difficult time. A GoFundMe campaign has raised nearly $10,600 (AUD 16,000) to help the family during this heartbreaking ordeal.
Government Response and Dog Safety Measures
This tragic event has drawn attention to the rising number of dog attacks in New South Wales. The state government is currently reviewing the Companion Animals Act 1998 in light of recommendations from coronial inquests into fatal dog attacks. NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig emphasized the strength of the state’s dog control laws but acknowledged the need for ongoing efforts to improve community safety. The incident underscores the importance of responsible dog ownership and increased awareness to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
