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Pit bull had history of biting before attacking cop Saturday

The pit bull that attacked a Saanich police officer last weekend has a history of biting people, police confirmed Wednesday.

The pit bull that attacked a Saanich police officer last weekend has a history of biting people, police confirmed Wednesday.

The four-year-old pit bull caused "serious" injuries earlier this year when it attacked another person, pound officers said.

Also troubling is that dog’s current whereabouts are unknown.

After the incident on Saturday, the animal was supposed to be kept inside the home in the 1000-block of Tolmie Ave. where the attack took place.

"There's not a lot of information on where this dog might be," said Sgt. Dean Jantzen. "Right now, our limited information (from the dog owner) is basically that the dog's been moved, and (he’s given us) a first name for someone he says it's with."

A 40-year-old Saanich police officer suffered a sprained left thumb, deep bruising and numerous puncture wounds that required 10 stitches after the dog attacked him Saturday night. He is expected to be off work for several weeks.

Police are asking anyone who sees a male pit bull or pit bull cross, that appears new to their neighbourhood, described as being roughly 80 pounds, to call them at 250-475-4321.

kslavin@saanichnews.com