CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Officials say a dog got inside a south Charlotte elementary school and injured seven students.
It all happened on March 19th just before 1:30pm. Officials say CMPD’s Animal Care and Control received a call for service in reference to a pit bull dog being inside Lansdowne Elementary School off Prett Court.
The dog reportedly got into the playground area while the children were outside on the playground. The children were escorted into the school by staff, however, the canine managed to get inside the school and became frightened after becoming overstimulated by the children running and making noise, according to a news release.
At that time, officials say the dog began to jump on and bite some of the children. A teacher was reportedly able to confine the dog and then contacted the dog’s owner from the information on the collar tag.
The owner picked up the dog and left the school before Animal Care and Control arrived on the scene. Officials say the dog was up to date on it’s rabies vaccinations and no charges have been filed at this time. The students only sustained minor injuries. Police say they do not believe the dog attacked any students. The dog is being kept for 10 days for evaluation.
The following message was sent to parents from the Lansdowne Elementary principal:
“Good afternoon Lansdowne families, this is Principal Crisp with an important message about an incident that you may see media reports regarding our school.
A neighbor’s dog came onto our school property during 5th grade recess and bit several students who were on the playground yesterday. None of the injuries are life threatening and all parents of the injured students were contacted, directly. An animal control officer was dispatched to our school and is taking the appropriate steps with the neighborhood pet owner. Questions about the state’s leash laws should be directed to the Mecklenburg County animal control department.
I want to ensure you that the safety of our students and staff is priority at Lansdowne Elementary and I am committed to keeping you informed about incidents that impact our students. Thank you for your support.”
