A spate of vicious dog attacks on animals and humans has happened across Mid Wales, including one on a young boy.

The child was attacked by a white dog as he walked on a pathway in Newtown, Dyfed-Powys Police said today.

The force is now warning parents to be on guard after the latest in a spate of vicious attacks by dogs across the region.

The boy has not been named, but was attacked in Lon Gwern, Trehafren, at 12.40pm on Saturday.

It is understood his injuries are not serious.

Constable Nicola Rutter, of Newtown Police, is appealing for witnesses.

She said: “The incident occurred on Saturday when a young boy was attacked while walking along a path. A white dog pounced on him causing injuries.”

People from the area said today that there have been a number of instances when dogs have been seen loose.

Julie Williams, a mother of three boys, who lives in Lon Gwern, said: “It is a great worry to hear things like this.

“It makes you wonder whether it is safe to let your own children play outside as there are dozens of dogs in the area and you don’t know which you can trust.”

The force said it was now urging dog owners to be responsible.

Superintendent for Powys, Huw Meredith, said there has been a spate of incidents where dogs have bitten or displayed aggression towards other dogs and members of the public.

He said: “Although nothing significant has occurred to date, police want to ensure dog owners get the message before a serious incident happens.

“Members of our communities should be able to walk in public spaces safely.

“The law gives the public protection from any type of dog, which is dangerously out of control in a public place, or in a private place where it has no right to be.

“Dyfed-Powys Police has a team of officers trained to identify illegal dogs, and along with our partner agencies have procedures in place to respond and take action.”

Mr Meredith added that the force and other partner agencies will always seize any dog that is believed to be a threat to the owner, their household or the general public. Contact the police by calling 101 in Powys or 0845 3302000 if you are outside the county.