Woman (50s) airlifted to hospital following incident with pit bull terrier

Sarah Slater

A woman in her 50s has been airlifted to hospital following an incident involving a pit bull terrier dog in Carlow.

The incident occurred shortly after 2pm in Ashfield, Blackbog Road, on the edge of Carlow Town.

Gardaí and emergency services were alerted to the incident, and it is understood that the woman has been attacked by one of two dogs she owns.

The woman is believed to have suffered injuries to her face and head in the incident, which occurred inside her home.

The woman was removed from the scene by air ambulance to the Mater Hospital Dublin for treatment of injuries believed to be serious.

In a statement, gardaí said the services of the dog warden were requested and the dog was euthanised by a vet at the scene.

"The dog is believed to be of a restricted breed.

"The scene is currently preserved for technical examination. Enquiries are ongoing."

Fine Gael councillor and Mayor of Carlow Paul Doogue said his “thoughts and prayers are with the lady involved and her family.”

The mayor added: “What an absolutely awful thing to happen and especially at this time of year which makes it worse. The entire community where the lady lives must be very shocked so my thoughts are with them also.”