Lunenburg police arrived at the town's animal control center just before noon on Monday, Aug. 1., the department said. Upon arrival, Wayne Comeau was found inside an outside kennel with the dog, bleeding from bite marks on his head, face, and torso, WCVB said.
The dog had bit down on the man's arm and wouldn't let go. At the time of the attack, Comeau was apparently taking the dog out to go to the bathroom, according to a GoFundMe organized in his honor.
Employees at the animal control office had tried to stop the attack several times but couldn't. Officers realized they needed to stop the mauling now, or Comeau would die, police said.
They waited until the dog had moved away from Comeau's head and fired a single shot to put down the animal.
Paramedics rushed in to begin treating his injuries, which included bites and scratches all over his body, police said. WCVB reported that Comeau was in serious condition. Reports said his wife was an officer at the animal control facility.
"Their whole life is dedicated to taking care of animals, the welfare of animals. Couldn't ask for a more compassionate couple," friend Celeste McCain told the news station. "It came out of nowhere. It's unfortunate. We're all pulling for him."
Authorities said the dog said been at the facility since Thursday and has not shown any other signs of aggression. Lunenburg police are trying to locate the owner of the dog.
According to the GoFundMe, Comeau "endured hours of surgery" and is still in recovery. People can donate to the campaign by clicking here.
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