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A teenage girl was rushed to hospital after being mauled by a dog at an animal rescue centre.

Emergency services were called to Carla Lane Animals in Need, on Spurriers Lane in Melling , shortly after 2pm on Wednesday to reports that a girl had been bitten by a dog.

The 17-year-old staff member was reportedly taking a rescue dog on a walk when she was attacked and bitten on the leg.

A witness, who was at the centre at the time of the incident, said that all visitors were told to leave as police , ambulance and the girl's family were on their way.

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A spokesperson for Merseyside Police told the ECHO that the teenager was taken for treatment and that the dog will be taken away and destroyed.

In a statement, the force said: "We can confirm that a girl has been taken to hospital following a dog attack at an animal rescue centre in Melling this afternoon, Wednesday 2 October.

"At 2.10pm, emergency services were called to Carla Lane Animals in Need on Spurriers Lane to reports of a 17-year-old girl being bitten by a dog, described as an American bulldog.

"The girl has been taken to hospital by paramedics for treatment to a leg injury.

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"The dog will be taken away and destroyed."

Carla Lane also posted on their Facebook page about the incident.

They said: "After unsubstantiated social media reports regarding an incident that occurred this afternoon, we would like to take the opportunity to provide clarification.

"A member of our staff was injured by a dog whilst on a walk.

"As is standard practice in bite incidents, the matter was reported appropriately, emergency services assistance sought and medical attention provided.

"We would like to thank our followers for their support and understanding, and would ask you to join us please in sending our team member, who is doing well and in good spirits, your wishes for a speedy recovery.

"We hope our followers understand that we will not be commenting any further on this matter. Thank you once again."