A family vacation turned into a nightmare when a one-year-old girl was attacked by a dog in Miami Beach. The incident occurred at Beach View Park around 10 a.m. on a Friday morning while the family was enjoying their time at the playground.
Toddler Recovery After Dog Attack at Miami Beach Park
Andy Petranker, the father of the little girl named Zoe, described the events leading up to the attack. While at the park, Petranker encountered a man with a dog. The dog’s owner reassured him that the pet was friendly and safe around children.
Initially, Zoe approached the dog and gently petted it. However, when she returned to circle around the animal, the dog suddenly lunged at her, striking her on the right side of her face. Petranker quickly reacted and pulled Zoe away from the dog.
Injuries and Hospitalization
Due to the severity of her injuries, Zoe was rushed to Holtz Children’s Hospital in Miami. Medical staff reported that she suffered significant wounds, including a lacerated lip and cheekbone, and narrowly avoided losing an eye. In total, Zoe needed almost 40 stitches on her face.
- Injuries: Lacerated lip and cheekbone
- Stitches: Nearly 40 stitches required
- Follow-up: Scheduled to see a plastic surgeon next week
The duration of her recovery remains uncertain, and her family has since hired a lawyer to address the incident. Petranker voiced concerns for other parents, emphasizing the importance of being vigilant in public spaces.
Park Regulations and Safety Concerns
Despite the warning signs indicating that dogs are prohibited in the park, the incident raises questions about safety compliance in public areas. According to the City of Miami Beach’s regulations, dogs are only allowed in designated dog parks.
In a related incident that same day, Broward Animal Care confirmed a separate attack involving a 1-year-old boy in Hallandale Beach. The family pet responsible for that attack was humanely euthanized at the father’s request. Thankfully, the boy has been reported stable following the incident.
The tragic events highlight the need for close supervision of children and strict adherence to safety regulations in public parks.
