Lake Tahoe swimmer undergoes surgery after otter attack

Lynnette Bellin, a 51-year-old swimming instructor from Reno, underwent surgery following a rare otter attack at Lake Tahoe near Hidden Beach on August 30. Bellin reported that the animal grabbed her leg and pulled her underwater, continuing a relentless assault with teeth and claws for approximately five minutes.

Initial medical treatment required 38 stitches and rabies prophylaxis. However, Bellin was recently readmitted to the hospital after developing an infection in her finger. Surgeons performed a procedure to rinse the infection with saline, and she is currently receiving IV antibiotics and occupational therapy to regain mobility in her hand.

While otter bites are extremely rare, with only 59 documented cases since 1875, Bellin has shared her recovery process through videos on social media.