Name: PTM
Victim: Adult, Pet
Location: The attack occurred in the backyard, Illinois
Year of attack: 5/30/21

Tell us about the attack

My almost 12-year-old cocker spaniel was being pulled through a 4-inch opening in our fence by the neighbor’s 3-year-old pit bull purchased from an animal rescue. I was able to reach through the fence and grab my dog under her armpits and hold onto her as the pit bull tried to rip her throat out. I never let go, as my forearm was in the mouth of the pit bull. I was screaming for help as the owners of the pit bull made a feeble attempt to control their animal. The pit bull got stuck on my watch and was not able to completely close her jaw on my dog’s throat. My screaming drew the attention of other neighbors but not one person called 911 and not one person tried to help me. My dog and I survived with only puncture wounds, and damage to my dog’s salivary glands and lymph nodes. It is a miracle we survived with minimal injuries.

How has your life changed as a result of the attack?
We are now afraid to go in our own backyard without protection. I am terrified when I see pit bull-like dogs.

Legal Consequences
The attacking pit bull was returned to the rescue organization and euthanized. The neighbors promptly went to a different rescue organization and bought another pit bull. We are waiting for the first rescue organization to pay all medical and veterinary bills.

What would you like people to know as a result of your attack?
Pit bulls are great until they are not! They are very strong and relentless when they attack. People need to understand that you CANNOT CHANGE GENETICS!! Pits are bred to fight and kill!