A dog is usually a man's best friend. But not for a fireman who rescued a dog from a raging torrent only to be savagely bitten by the pet.
A German shepherd hoisted to safety from the storm-swollen Los Angeles river is fine, authorities said, although the firefighter who splashed down in the daring helicopter rescue was hospitalised with dog bites.
Los Angeles fire officials said 50-year-old Joe St Georges, who suffered severe hand and arm injuries, was taken to County USC Medical Center.
"He has significant injuries, bites and punctures, to his hand and arm and is being seen by a specialist," Los Angeles fire Capt Steve Ruda said.
The 25-year department veteran was in good condition, Ruda said.
The dog, nicknamed Vernon after the Southern California town where he was found, did not have a name tag or computer chip, said Sgt Charles Miller of the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority in Downey.
The dog was quarantined to be monitored for rabies, but "appears to be well-maintained and cared for", Miller said.
