GOLDEN GATE, Fla. - The family of a dog shot in the face by a Collier deputy speaks exclusively to WINK News.

The deputy responded to a home on Hunter Boulevard after receiving a call about a loose dog Wednesday morning.  The Sheriff's Office says when Cpl. Anthony Lauer got out of his cruiser at the home, the pitbull attacked.

"The deputy I think was going to see if anybody was at the house and then the dog charged him," said Dana Alger, Animal Control Officer and Supervisor with Domestic Animal Services.  "Kind of pinned him up against his vehicle."

The dog's family says the four-year-old pitbull, Angel, wouldn't have attacked the deputy.  But, they were not home at the time. 

"The dog was very nice and shy," said Josue Colastin, who's sister owns the dog.  "She wouldn't hit nobody or nothing like that."

But, Domestic Animal Services says it is common for dogs to become territorial.

"Anyone walking the street was at risk to be harmed," said Alger.  "That's why CCSO responded."

The family surrendered Angel to Domestic Animal Services who put it down.

"Its heartache for the family because their animal is aggressive and did this and because it got shot," said Alger.

She says its difficult for Cpl. Lauer too.

"Whenever you have to do something to an animal, nobody wants to do that especially in that manner," said Alger.