Pitbull To Be Quarantined for 14 Days After Biting 5-Year-Old Girl

The pitbull that Tuesday morning will be quarantined for 14 days in accordance with state law, police said. 

A 5-year-old Portsmouth girl was transported by ambulance to Tuesday morning after a pitbull attack. 

The girl has since been transported to Hasbro Children's Hospital for treatment of "serious injuries to her arm," according to Lt. Brian Peters. Her medical condition is unknown at this time. 

Police were called at 8:35 a.m. Tuesday to a home on Island Avenue, located just off Park Avenue in Island Park. A family friend had just brought the girl to the Island Avenue home. She was dropped off to see her mother. The mother does not own the dog, however, or live at the residence.

As the girl was entering the home through the front door, a pitbull ran to her and bit down on her arm, police said. The dog held his bite on the girl. 

A 26-year-old neighbor witnessed the attack from across the street. He then ran to assist the girl. 

"The male grabbed him and pried the dog's mouth open to release the 5-year-old," Peters said. 

The girl sustained serious injuries to her arm and was transported by Portsmouth Rescue to Newport Hospital and later to Hasbro Children's Hospital. 

The man sustained minor cuts to his hands. He refused medical treatment at the scene, said Portsmouth Fire Capt. Michael O'Brien. 

A vicious dog hearing might be held following the investigation, according to Peters. At this time, no charges have been filed. 

"The investigation still continues," Peters said. 

In accordance with state law, the dog will be quarantined at the Potter League for Animals. The town of Portsmouth does not operate a dog shelter, but utilizes the non-profit Potter League in such cases. 

Police are currently making arrangements with the owner to transport the dog to the Potter League. The dog is expected to be transported by 5 p.m. tonight. 

The cost of transportation and shelter must be paid by the dog's owner, according to town ordinances. 

The town of Portsmouth is also currently without an animal control officer. The town has not filled the vacant position since .