Elderly man shares recovery journey a year after brutal dog attack

SAN ANTONIO - An elderly man's survival story after being brutally mauled by pit bulls is nothing short of remarkable.

What started as a terrifying encounter for 77-year-old Max De Los Santos has now become a testament to his resiliency and recovery.

It's been more than a year since his attack, and De Los Santos spoke to us for the first time about his attack.

"Obviously, I'm glad to be here but things have changed," said De Los Santos, back in his home.

He is now living with a newfound appreciation for life thanks to the support system that helped him through a painful experience.

On August 16, 2023, De Los Santos was attacked by three dogs on his property on the far West Side.

"What attacked me was a German Shepherd on his hind legs," said De Los Santos. "He was as tall as me, I used to be 5'8, so I was hitting him but the damage was being done on my legs by the pit bulls. He was not biting me, he was eating my leg."

The dog attack happened in De Los Santo's front yard. The dogs used to live across the street, and have since been euthanized.

Doctors not only amputated both his legs but also added three stents to his heart. They weren't sure how he was going to recover given his age, but the 77-year-old fought through extensive surgeries and rehabilitation.

De Los Santos has not only returned home but is also thriving as he continues his physical therapy. He hopes to be walking in his prosthetics soon, with the goal of dancing with his wife once again.