An 11-year-old dog named Rosie survived a mountain lion attack in Questa, New Mexico, KRQE reports. The attack occurred on July 7, 2023. Soon afterwards, Rosie — a Pit Bull Terrier — was rushed to Taos Veterinary Clinic. Once there, she underwent a seven-hour surgery and received more than 100 stitches.
Sharon Borges runs the animal rescue Run Around Dog Town in Costilla. She initially thought Rosie had been in a dog fight. It was later that she realized the bite and claw marks were consistent with a mountain lion attack. Borges said, “I started looking at her, and I picked her chin up. She had claw marks like she was filleted. She had … bite marks.”
Questa Police say that Rosie may not be the only victim of the mountain lion. Authorities have received reports of other dogs going missing in the area.
A GoFundMe Is Set Up To Help
Chris Williams, who also works with Run Around Dog Town, said that donations helped pay for Rosie’s $1,400 medical bill. The organization has created a GoFundMe page in case someone else becomes a victim of a mountain lion attack.
“After a recent mountain lion attack on a local dog, we decided to try and create a fund to help offset the cost of vet bills for local pets in this low income area,” Williams said. “Many beloved pets in the area aren’t getting the care they need after an accident or in this case, an attack simply because most residents in this rural community simply cannot afford it. In an attempt to reduce the number of pets being put down or shot because no other option is available, we’re going to start this fund. Hopefully with the help of all you large hearted pet lovers out there.”
What To Do If You See a Mountain Lion
If you see a mountain lion, do not approach it.
Mountain lions are on the list of wild animals that will attack your dog.
According to the USDA Forest Service, if you encounter a mountain lion, do not run. Attempt to remain calm and back away slowly while you keep eye contact. Their advice is to “do all you can to appear large.” The service suggests you “stand upright, raise your arms, raise your walking stick, open your jacket.” They further caution people to “never bend over or crouch down, avoid looking like a four-legged prey animal.”
If you believe your pet has been attacked by a mountain lion or any other wild animal, contact your local animal control agency or wildlife officials immediately.
