Harris County, TX — A 3-year-old boy, Santiago Capetillo, is recovering from serious facial injuries after being attacked by a neighbor’s dog in the Edgewood Village neighborhood of northeast Harris County. The violent incident occurred on Nov. 18, just days before Thanksgiving, leaving the child with multiple injuries that will require long-term medical care.
Dog Lunges as Mother Opens Front Door
According to the family, the attack unfolded when Valeria Capetillo, Santiago’s mother, opened the front door after noticing what she believed was a lost dog lingering outside.
“It just happened so fast,” Valeria said, recalling the terrifying moment. “I tried to put my leg so he could bite me instead, but he just went after him.”
The dog immediately lunged at the toddler, inflicting severe damage within seconds.
Father Intervenes to Save Son
Santiago’s father, Alex Capetillo, reacted instantly when he heard the commotion.
“My first instinct was get the dog off of my son,” he said.
Alex managed to pull the animal away by choking it until it released his son, then forced the dog outside. Doorbell camera footage later showed the dog lingering near their home, even prompting concern from an Amazon delivery driver who approached the house.
Child Suffers Extensive Injuries
The extent of Santiago’s injuries is devastating. The attack left him with:
- Fractured facial bones
- Two missing front teeth
- Eye and eyelid injuries
Doctors say his recovery will take time, and the family remains shaken by the trauma.
Investigation Launches — Slow Response From Dog’s Owner
Harris County Pets launched an investigation shortly after the incident. In a statement to KPRC 2’s Gage Goulding, a spokesperson said that while they had been in contact with the dog’s owner, there were delays in cooperation.
The owner did bring the dog in for an initial evaluation on Nov. 20, but was later issued citations for failing to complete the mandatory 10-day quarantine at a private veterinary clinic. The delay left the Capetillo family fearful.
“I have to carry my gun in my hand walking to the car because I’m scared that the dog might come out,” Alex said, describing the ongoing tension in their community.
Dog Seized by Authorities
On Tuesday, Harris County Pets confirmed that the dog had finally been seized by animal control officers under a warrant issued by the Justice of the Peace.
“Yes, the shelter just confirmed that the dog was seized this afternoon… The dog is now in our custody,” a spokesperson said in a revised statement.
The agency has not released additional details, as the case remains active.
Family May Seek “Dangerous Dog” Classification
While there is no automatic requirement for the dog to be euthanized, the Capetillo family has the legal option to pursue a “dangerous” designation for the animal. If approved by the county, the dog’s owner would be required to:
- Carry special liability insurance
- Post warning signs
- Ensure the dog wears a distinctive warning collar
- Follow strict containment rules
If a dog officially labeled as dangerous attacks again, it can be permanently removed from the owner’s custody.
For now, the Capetillo family is focused on supporting Santiago’s recovery while seeking accountability for the traumatic attack.
Should stricter rules be enforced for owners whose dogs attack children? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below.
