3-Year-Old Girl Seriously Injured in Dog Attack on Marco Island 🐶💔

Marco Island, FL – A 3-year-old girl, Ava LaCava, was hospitalized after being bitten in the face by a Belgian Malinois at a restaurant on San Marco Road. According to the Marco Island Police Department (MIPD), Ava asked the dog’s owner—who stated the dog is a service animal—if she could pet it. The owner permitted her to do so after finishing his meal.

Tragically, as Ava reached out, the dog turned and bit her once in the face. She was immediately separated from the animal and airlifted to Gulf Coast Medical Center, and later to Fort Myers for surgery. Ava underwent three hours of reconstructive plastic surgery, receiving over 80 stitches.

Her grandfather, Alan LaCava, shared a message with the community:

“This has been an awful tragedy. Ava has a long road of recovery ahead, with follow-ups and potentially more surgery. All of the funds will go to Ava’s mother, Rosalie, for immediate and long-term care. Please keep her and the family in your prayers.”

A fundraiser has been established to support Ava and her family: Support Ava’s Recovery ❤️‍🩹

What this means for the community:

• A stark reminder about safety around service animals and public spaces.

• Restaurant patrons and families should exercise caution with animals, even those labeled as service dogs.

• The Marco Island community is rallying around the LaCava family during this difficult time.