An 80-year-old woman is recovering after being attacked by a dog near her home in Little Portugal.
The incident took place around 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday at the intersection of Dundas Street West and Dufferin Street, as Natalia Santos was waiting to cross the street on her way to a seniors program. Without warning, a dog bit her arm, leaving her with injuries that required nine stitches.
Santos, who was alone at the time, said the attack occurred when a woman walking with the dog suddenly let it bite her. A nearby witness quickly stepped in to help, using a first-aid kit to tend to her wounds before she was transported to the hospital.
Santos’ daughter, Patti Zwolak, was informed by witnesses that the dog had been jumping around aggressively as it crossed the street and that one of the owners had been striking it. Despite the attack, the dog’s owners reportedly apologized. However, Santos stressed the importance of being more vigilant with dogs, urging people to always use leashes, regardless of a dog’s behavior.
Although the dog was reportedly on a leash when a photo was taken later, Santos noted that it wasn’t leashed at the time of the attack. Both Toronto police and Toronto Animal Services are investigating the incident. As a precaution, Santos received a tetanus shot, and the family is awaiting the results of additional tests, including whether she will need a rabies shot. Santos is feeling slightly better, but the family continues to monitor her condition and the investigation.