Girl, 8, Recovering After Shocking Dog Attack in Hollywood

An 8-year-old girl is recovering after a violent dog attack in Hollywood, Florida, that was captured on home security video.

The incident occurred Friday afternoon on Funston Street, as the child walked home from school with her mother. Suddenly, a pit bull broke free from its leash and lunged at the girl, biting her in the face.

She was rushed to Memorial Regional Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The dog was secured by Broward County Animal Control, and police are investigating.

The dog’s owner, a disabled veteran, said he was also injured trying to protect the child. “He bit me inside the ear and arm while I tried to hold her,” he said, adding that the attack was “totally out of character.”

The owner said he feels deep remorse and plans to surrender the dog. “I can’t take that chance anymore,” he said. “His protection of me could hurt someone else, and I couldn’t live with that.”

The girl’s family has not commented publicly as the investigation continues.