9-year-old girl recovering after dog attack at Suncoast Humane Society, dog may be euthanized

ENGLEWOOD, Fla. —

A 9-year-old girl is recovering after being bitten in the face and leg by a dog at the Suncoast Humane Society in Englewood, as Charlotte County Animal Control investigates the incident and determines the animal's fate.

The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon while the child was visiting the shelter with her family, according to the Englewood Fire Department, which responded to the emergency call.

Captain Joshua Jacobs said crews initially had little information about the severity of the situation.

“We heard the call go out, and at first, you don’t know exactly what the call is until you get there,” Jacobs said.

When first responders arrived, they encountered a chaotic scene, with family members and bystanders visibly distressed.

“There was a lot of people outside crying and screaming. The child herself was obviously distraught,” Jacobs said.

The girl suffered bites to her face and leg. First responders worked quickly to stabilize her and calm the scene, including assisting her mother, who was trying to remain composed while caring for her children.

The child was airlifted to Tampa General Hospital, where she is recovering.

Officials with Charlotte County Animal Control said the dog involved in the attack is currently quarantined at the humane society while an investigation is underway.

In a statement to Gulf Coast News, the agency said, “Our team is currently in the process of completing a thorough report and investigation. As with similar investigations, the process involves gathering statements, reviewing documentation, and building a complete case, which can take time. Therefore, there is limited information available to share at this stage.”

The dog has been placed under a mandatory 10-day quarantine at the Suncoast Humane Society, which began on the day of the incident.

Once the investigation is complete, Animal Control will make a recommendation regarding the outcome for the animal. “In some cases, that recommendation may include euthanasia. If the owner does not agree with the recommended outcome, the case may proceed through the dangerous dog classification process in accordance with Florida law,” the statement said.

The girl’s family has asked for privacy as she continues to recover.

Jacobs, who prayed with the family at the scene, expressed optimism about the child’s condition.

“I do believe that she’s going to make a wonderful and full recovery,” he said.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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