JOHOR BARU: An 11-year-old girl was badly injured after being attacked by her neighbour's dog while she was playing outside their house.

Mersing OCPD Supt Cyril Edward Nuing said that the incident occurred at about 7.30pm on Friday (June 27) when the chain restraining the dog broke.

"The mixed-breed dog attacked the child and badly injured her face and body. The victim was sent to Hospital Rompin for treatment," he said in a statement here on Sunday (June 29).

He added that the child was later taken to a specialist hospital for further treatment.

"Initial investigations show that the owner did not have a permit or license for the dog.

"The veterinary department is currently conducting checks on the animal and observing if it has any infectious diseases," he said.

He added that the case is being investigated under Section 289 of the Penal Code for negligence with respect to any animal.

In a photo sighted by The Star, the girl suffered severe facial injuries in the attack.