Photos: Bobcat snuggles up in dog's bed after attacking dog

WASHINGTON (TND) — A dog named Squeakers suffered serious injuries after a bobcat entered a family's home through a doggy door -- and then snuggled up in Squeakers' bed.

TheArizona Game & Fish Department shared a photo of Squeakers after the dog visited a veterinarian and received care for his injuries.

Another photo shows Squeakers wearing a cone. The dog appeared to suffer injuries on its hind legs.

Many thanks to concerned citizens & the Veterinary Specialty Center Tucson from the family of #Squeakers, who turned up injured Tues. after a bobcat entered their home Mon. through a doggy door," the department noted on Twitter.

The department also shared a few photos of the bobcat lounging in the dog's bedand cuddling with a blanket inside the family's house in San Manuel.

"The bobcat escaped before an officer arrived," according to the post.

The family set up a GoFundMe account, noting that Squeakers needs surgery.

My goal is $3,300.00 to cover medical expenses to help my owners cover the costs," according to the GoFundMe page. "Any overages will be donated to a local charity to help other people and animals in need that cannot afford it. Thank you!"

The family also created an Instagram account, so the public can follow Squeaker's progress.

Thank you all for you concerns," the family noted. "The staff at Veterinary Specialty Center Tucson did an amazing job patching me up after I met up with the bobcat."

On Thursday, the family shared a photo of Squeakers enjoying his new bed.

"As an update, I’m home relaxing in a new bed and taking it easy while I heal up," according to the post.

No other injuries were reported. The department advised the public not to handle entrapped or hurt wildlife and noted that bobcats are attracted to water in pools, birdbaths, fountains, and pets’ water dishes.

"Shelter for bobcats can include rooftops, attics, patios, and the space underneath decks," according to the department's website. "Other small spaces can also make attractive dens (i.e., planters, rubbish piles, sheds, etc.). Bobcats are attracted to thick brush, shade, and unoccupied yards where they will sometimes rest during the day or bask in the sun."

If a bobcat bites a person or appears hyperactive, the department advises the public to take the following actions:

• Contact your county animal control office
• Fight back if it has attacked
• Avoid the area and stay indoors
• Call authorities

Learn more about Squeakers at Squeakers2023.