6-Year-Old In Coma After Being Mauled By 3 Pig-Hunting Dogs

A 6-year-old boy in New Zealand has been put in an induced coma after three pig-hunting dogs mauled him, severely injuring his face and upper body.

The emergency crew was called to a property in the Whare Creek area, about 14 miles south of Manapouri around 7 p.m. Friday, following which the injured minor was airlifted to a hospital, where he remained in critical condition.

The attack occurred on a farm after working hours. According to the farm owner, the canines belonged to an employee, and were shot dead on the evening of the incident.

The boy was visiting the farm with a friend of another employee, newspaper website Stuff reported. At one point, a dog attacked him and two other canines joined in.

The boy, who was not identified, underwent several surgeries, and was in an induced coma, the Otago Daily Times reported. He reportedly sustained injuries to his face, throat, head, arms and torso. The boy’s ear and lip were starting to show signs of recoloration following surgery.

"I don't know what the outcome is going to be just yet, we're going to have to take our time on that one," the child’s grandfather, who was not named, said to the outlet.

The farm owner said she was aware the injuries were severe, but added the boy "was expected to recover from his injuries."

Another 4-year-old boy was present at the property, but was not attacked.

A police spokesman told the Otago Daily Times the victim was in a stable condition in Dunedin Hospital and the dog's owner was fully cooperating with the police.

"Don't let your guard down with any dog. They all have teeth. Every dog can bite. That's a part of their communication. So, stay aware," Wake County Animal Services director Jennifer Federico cautioned people, WTVD-TV reported.

Last week, an 8-day-old infant in North Carolina was mauled to death by a pit bull. The family had recently adopted the canine from the streets after it wandered near their house. Animal control took the dog into custody and euthanized it.