THE parents of a Skipton toddler injured in a dog attack are calling for a change in the laws surrounding dangerous canines.

Lee-Anne Harvey and Alan Foster's one-year-old daughter, Paige, required stitches after she was bitten on the face by a family friend's dog.

But when her parents reported the matter to the police, they were told no action could be taken against the pet.

Miss Harvey said a police officer informed them the animal - believed to be a Jack Russell - was not covered under the Dangerous Dogs Act and the incident had not taken place when the dog was out of control in a public place.

She was told the incident was not a criminal offence and if she wanted to take the matter further she would have to start civil proceedings.

Miss Harvey, who lives on Greatwood Avenue, told the Herald: "I was appalled and I've lost all faith in the legal system. Would I have had to have lost my daughter for them to take action?"

Paige was with her grandmother at a house on Rombalds Drive, Skipton, on Saturday when the incident occurred. It is thought the animal went for Paige as she ate a biscuit.

After going to Skipton General and Airedale General Hospitals, Paige was transferred to Bradford Royal Infirmary for treatment for wounds to her cheek and lips.

Miss Harvey said they had been extremely worried about her little girl.

She said: "She's been brave. It's not just the fact the dog has bitten her, it's the ordeal she has been through and she's not even two yet."

Mr Foster, who lives on North Parade, said his daughter might be left with scarring and possible nerve damage.

He added that staff on Paige's ward said they had treated five children over two days, who had all been involved in dog attacks.

Paige's parents said they wanted to warn other people that it could happen to their children.

Miss Harvey added: "And they need to know that if it happens nothing would be done by the police because nothing can be done."

Sergeant Paul Cording from Skipton Police Station said officers had spoken to Paige's parents and had also given advice to the dog's owners. He said a criminal offence had not been committed and added: "If they want to seek compensation for injuries they will have to go through civil proceedings."

Sgt Cording said he appreciated her parents might not be happy with this and hoped the toddler's injuries were not too serious.