Pit bull fatally shot after attack

LA MIRADA - An animal control officer is recovering after she was attacked by a pit bull last week.Mireya Martinez, a county animal control officer, responded to the 13500 block of Ramsey Ave., where a male pit bull had just killed a Chihuahua and left its body in the street. As Martinez tried to contain the dog, she was attacked. A sheriff's deputy who was also on-scene shot the dog to protect Martinez's life. "Public safety is our number one priority," said Marcia Mayeda, director of the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control. "Although our animal control officers are experienced animal handlers, this tragic incident exemplifies the potentially dangerous situations our animal control officers face each day." Martinez was not seriously injured and is expected to make a full recovery. Residents are urged to report loose or stray dogs by calling (562) 940-6898.

********** Published: November 29, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 33