Woman from upstate New York in intensive care after attack by several dogs

On Sunday, June 2, 2024, at approximately 6:58 p.m., the Cortland Police Department, Cortland Fire Department, and TLC EMS responded to a 911 call at 160 Main Street. Two 911 callers reported that a woman was being attacked by multiple dogs in an apartment at that location.

Arrival on site

When police officers arrived at the scene, they found that a 42-year-old woman had been bitten by three dogs, causing serious injuries to her head, chest, shoulders and arms.

Measures to stop the attack

In an attempt to stop the attack, officers used pepper spray. Unfortunately, the spray had no effect on the dogs. As a last resort, an officer was forced to shoot the most aggressive of the three dogs, successfully stopping the attack.

Efforts to save the victim

Officers took control of the situation by herding and isolating two of the dogs in a bedroom. The dog injured by the gunfire was also restrained in the kitchen. The immediate focus turned to the critical medical needs of the female victim.

Life-saving measures on site

Officers placed tourniquets on the victim’s upper arms to stop the bleeding. They also placed hemostatic bandages on two wounds on his shoulder and chest to stop the bleeding. Paramedics from the Cortland Fire Department and TLC Ambulance provided medical care on the porch of the residence.

Critical condition and ongoing treatment

After responding and receiving initial medical attention, the female victim was transported directly to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse for urgent treatment of her injuries. She has since undergone multiple surgeries and is currently in critical but stable condition in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Result of the dogs

The three dogs involved in the attack were taken to Country Acres in Homer, New York. Unfortunately, the dog that was shot during the incident succumbed to his injuries. The other two dogs were quarantined as a precaution.

Cortland Police received assistance from the Cortland Fire Department, TLC Ambulance, Cortland County Sheriff’s Office and Country Acres.