A woman was forced to fight for her life after being brutally mauled by two dogs that surrounded her on a country road.
The attack occurred at Trebeck Court, just outside the coastal town of Winchelsea, in southeastern Victoria, about 4am on Thursday.
Fortunately for the woman, her cries for help attracted the attention of police officers, who were forced to use pepper spray on the wild animals to take them away from the 54-year-old man. Geelong Advertiser reported.
A woman was left in serious but stable condition in the hospital after being attacked by two dogs (generic photo in the photo)
Paramedics were called and treated the woman at the scene before rushing her to Geelong Hospital with critical injuries to her leg and upper body.
The woman remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition.
Officers captured the two dogs and they have since been handed over to council rangers.
It is not clear what breed the dogs are.
Victoria Police are investigating the circumstances of the attack and why the woman left in the early hours.
Surf Coast Shire community general manager Gail Gatt said the onus was on dog owners to maintain control of their pets.
The dog attack occurred early Friday morning on a rural road.
“Responsible dog ownership is vital to helping keep people, pets and wildlife safe in our community environments,” Ms Gatt said.
“Our message to dog owners is clear: your dog is your responsibility.”
Regional Victoria has seen a sharp increase in dog attacks – up 46 per cent (69) in 2023 from the previous year (22).
Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation of the most recent incident is asked to contact police.
Victoria Police has been contacted for comment.