Florida Woman Injured in Attack by Adopted Dog

Dog attacks can happen at any time, even in your own home. You never know what may cause a dog to suddenly snap, and when it happens, your life can be at risk.

A Florida woman is recovering from a severe arm injury after she was bitten while trying to separate two dogs that began fighting inside her home.

The woman had adopted a neglected, underweight dog several months earlier after seeing a social media post seeking help for the abandoned animal. She named the dog Apollo and described him as affectionate despite the difficult circumstances he had endured before being rescued. During the months he lived with her, she said he got along well with her other dogs and appeared to be thriving in a loving home.

That was until she was bitten by Apollo. The incident happened on July 3 shortly after the dogs had finished eating. She said one of her other dogs walked past Apollo, who suddenly became aggressive and attacked. She stepped in to break up the fight.

After finally separating the dogs and moving Apollo outside, she realized she had suffered a devastating injury. She said her wrist had been severely damaged, with the bone exposed and significant bleeding.

She called 911 and was transported by ambulance to a hospital for treatment. One of her dogs was also injured in the attack.

Authorities ultimately euthanized Apollo following the attack. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover expenses as she recovers from her injuries.

Despite the traumatic experience, the woman said she does not blame Apollo for what happened. She believes the dog’s past trauma and previous environment likely contributed to his behavior. She emphasized the importance of understanding that abused or neglected animals may carry lasting emotional scars.

Dangers of Adopting Rescue Dogs

When it comes to dogs from rescues and shelters, you never know what you are going to get. While many dogs from rescues and shelters become loving, well-adjusted pets, some arrive with unknown histories, past trauma, or medical conditions that can present challenges for adopters.

• Unknown behavioral history. Many shelter dogs have limited background, so it may be unclear whether a dog has experienced abuse, neglect, poor socialization, or previous aggression.
• Fear and anxiety. Moving into a new home can be stressful. Some dogs may display excessive barking, withdrawal, separation anxiety, or destructive behavior.
• Resource guarding. Some rescue dogs may guard food, toys, treats, or sleeping areas. They may snap or bite if someone approaches what the dog considers valuable.
• Even dogs that appear friendly at a shelter may react differently in a home. Some may show aggression toward other dogs, cats, small pets, or livestock.

Contact Us Today

Dog bites can cause lasting injuries and result in significant legal consequences for dog owners.

If you have been bitten by someone else’s dog, you may be able to file a claim for compensation. Get the help you need from a Bradenton dog bite lawyer from Cahall Law Firm. We understand the laws and know that strict liability applies. In fact, dog owners are liable even for that first bite. Schedule a consultation with our office to learn more. Call (941) 281-2019 or fill out the online form.

Source:

fox10tv.com/2026/07/08/i-still-have-so-much-love-that-dog-woman-hospitalized-after-foster-dog-attack/