Two seriously injured after pit bulls attack caretakers in Vermilion area

Two people were taken to hospital with serious injuries after being attacked by two pit bulls at a rural property near Vermilion, east of Edmonton, according to RCMP.

Mounties say officers were called Wednesday to a home in the Vermilion area, roughly 190 kilometres east of Edmonton, after the dogs turned on their caretakers. Police did not release details about the extent of the injuries but confirmed both victims required medical treatment.

Following the attack, the dogs escaped from the property, prompting authorities to warn residents about the potential risk of the animals being loose in the community. RCMP said public safety alerts were issued while officers worked to locate the dogs.

Police say the pit bulls were later found with the assistance of the homeowners. No additional injuries to the public were reported.

The incident comes amid ongoing discussions in Alberta communities about responsible pet ownership and animal control, particularly in rural areas where emergency response times can be longer.