Swim instructor receives 38 stitches after otter attack in Lake Tahoe

<p>A Reno swim instructor was attacked by an otter while swimming in Lake Tahoe over the weekend, resulting in 38 stitches and rabies shots. Lynnette Bellin reported that the encounter lasted five minutes and occurred approximately 30 minutes into her swim.</p><p>Bellin, who has been swimming in Lake Tahoe for 25 years, stated that she was unaware of the presence of otters in the area. She described the initial sensation of the attack as feeling like a person pulling on her, but soon realized it was an otter when she felt its teeth and claws.</p><p>During the struggle, Bellin attempted to fight off the otter, which became more aggressive. She described picking it up and trying to throw it, but it responded by biting and clawing her hands and face.</p><p>Despite screaming for help, she noted that there were people on a nearby bike trail who could not hear her. Eventually, she managed to reach some rocks but found them slippery. The otter continued to pursue her until she was able to climb onto a larger rock.</p><p>After the attack, the otter circled the area while Bellin climbed over a fence to reach a bike trail, where she walked back to her starting point barefoot and covered in blood. Emergency responders met her upon her return, and she later drove herself to the emergency room.</p><p>Bellin expressed her love for swimming in Lake Tahoe, stating, "Swimming in Lake Tahoe is my absolute favorite thing to do. It is my peace and my sanctuary. I feel like that was robbed from me after the otter attack."</p>