Overview

• Danie Wright says a concealed gator lunged from a moss-covered creek and clamped onto 4-month-old Dax's collar.
• She struck the gator in the eye and flipped it onto its back, freeing the puppy and retreating to safety.
• Wright suffered bites and scrapes to her arm and leg but is recovering, while the puppy was not injured.
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers and licensed trappers captured and removed the roughly 5-foot alligator.
• Wright urges dog owners to keep pets away from water and stay attentive on walks, as officials note pets are frequent targets and serious human bites are uncommon.