Animal Control Officer Severely Mauled in Fort Lauderdale; Dog Euthanized

Fort Lauderdale Animal Control Officer Seriously Injured in Dog Attack A Broward County Animal Control officer, Martina Bernard, is recovering from serious injuries after a dog attack in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday evening. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. near SW 14th Terrace and SW 7th Street. According to Fort Lauderdale Police, Bernard was performing a welfare check on an American Staffordshire Terrier mix when the dog attacked her. Gregory Campbell, a witness, described the scene: "We heard Bernard crying for help, then we tried to get the dog off her." Campbell's efforts, along with those of his mother, were unsuccessful until police arrived. The 911 call captured the urgency of the situation, with Campbell's mother stating, "The dog is mauling her! The dog is attacking animal control. Please!" Bernard sustained bites to her scalp, ear, and body, requiring nearly 1,000 stitches. The dog involved was subsequently euthanized. Broward County Animal Care confirmed Bernard's employment and the nature of her visit. This incident highlights the inherent risks faced by animal control officers and underscores the importance of responsible dog ownership.