A woman was injured in an encounter with a group of five javelinas while she walked her dog at a park in Tucson. According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department, one or more of the javelinas bit the woman’s ankle and upper arm after charging for the dog and knocking her to the ground.
Mark Hart with Game and Fish says javelinas see dogs as coyotes, causing the animals to react.
“Normally, they're not dangerous to human beings, but a dog walker is at risk if they come upon javelina while they're out walking their dog around," he says.
As for the presence of javelinas, Hart says they appear if there are “attractants” like food, water and shelter. He says dog walkers who see the animal should turn the other way.
