Children injured in Carnikava dog attack stable

Children injured in an attack by two large stray dogs in Carnikava kindergarten Riekstiņš are in stable condition, LSM reports. Six children and a kindergarten employee were bitten during a group walk.

Two of the children were taken to hospital and required surgery. The Children’s Clinical University Hospital said their condition was stable.

The State Police is investigating the attack and has opened criminal proceedings over offences against public safety and public order.

Hospital paediatric surgeon Anete Rozentālberga said dog bites can cause serious tissue damage requiring surgery and, in some cases, repeated reconstructive operations. Infections are also a significant risk because bacteria from a dog’s mouth can penetrate deep into tissue, even when a wound initially appears minor.

Rozentālberga also warned that dog attacks can have lasting psychological effects. The children’s parents have been offered psychological support, while the social service has contacted a crisis team to assist kindergarten staff and parents.

The dogs’ owner has been identified. The State Food and Veterinary Service is assessing what will happen next. Ādaži municipality said four administrative offence proceedings had been opened following the incident.