A Saanich police officer is recovering at home after he was injured during an encounter with a pit bull Saturday night.
Just after 8:30 p.m. officers were conducting a curfew check at a home in the 1000-block of Tolmie Ave.
The 28-year-old resident’s bail supervisor asked police to check on the man.
Two officers went to the door of the man’s home, which required going into the backyard of the main house. As one of the officers entered through a gate, a four-year-old pit bull leapt up and locked his jaw onto one officer's left shoulder and upper arm.
The second officer deployed his Taser, and the dog let go. But moments later the animal again attacked the officer, this time biting his left wrist.
The dog's owner – the man police were asked to check on – came out of the home and restrained the pit bull.
The injured officer was taken to Royal Jubilee Hospital and treated for a sprained left thumb, deep bruising and numerous puncture wounds that required 10 stitches.
"He is now resting at home and is definitely expected to be off for a number of weeks," said Sgt. Dean Jantzen.
The 40-year-old officer joined Saanich police about three years ago.
Saanich pound inspectors are investigating the incident. The dog remains at the home.
kslavin@saanichnews.com