A dog researcher says the rising number of dog attacks against children is a child protection issue.
A newborn has died following a dog attack in Hamilton.
It's understood the dog was the family's rottweiler.
Dr Natasha Duncan-Sutherland, who's also an emergency doctor, told Kate Hawkesby children are a vulnerable group that need protection.
She says it's clear children are being bitten, so we need to do things that counter that.
"There should be compulsory behavioural assessment of dogs that bite. We also need to introduce mandatory reporting, improve dog control and make neutering compulsory."
LISTEN ABOVE
Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you