Couple’s dog dies after trying to save them from bear that brutally attacked the pair in their home
A couple in rural Northern California have been left devastated after their seven-year-old French bulldog died following a brutal bear attack at their home earlier this month (19 September).
Jeff and Mallory Wilson were at their home in Trinity County when their dog, Cassie, began barking late at night.
Jeff went outside to investigate, only to find a cinnamon bear behind his patio furniture, which immediately attacked him, knocking him to the ground.
Mallory then woke to the noise and went outside to see what was happening, before the animal attacked her too, leaving her with serious injuries to her head and face, a broken hand and multiple bite and puncture wounds.
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Jeff also suffered two broken ribs alongside numerous bite and claw wounds.
During the terrifying attack, Cassie reportedly threw herself between Jeff and the bear before the bear grabbed her with its mouth and started to run away.
Jeff fought back, throwing a chair at the bear and forcing it to drop Cassie. He then shoved a patio heater towards the animal, which eventually fled.
Cassie was subsequently rushed for emergency surgery after suffering multiple bite wounds and deep cuts along her spine.
There was briefly some hope when she began walking and drinking water by herself two days later, but the beloved family dog died the following morning.
Mallory has explained that Cassie had never been trained to protect them.
"She was never meant to be a hero, she was not our guard dog. She was just our sweet indoor lap baby," Mallory told Redheaded Blackbelt.
A GoFundMe page set up by the couple’s good friend, Rachel Moscon, described Cassie’s actions during the attack.
"Cassie threw herself between Jeff and the bear in an effort to protect him," Moscon said.
She added that the seven-year-old bulldog was a beloved member of the Wilson family, saying, 'In the moment Jeff needed her most, this little dog courageously put herself between him and a bear'.
"If you are able to help Mallory and Jeff through this incredibly difficult time, any donation will help give them the time and resources they need to heal, grieve Cassie, and eventually rebuild the life and business they love. If you cannot donate, sharing their story would mean so much. Thank you for helping them through a tragedy none of us could ever have imagined," Rachel added.
The fundraiser has currently raised $23,677 of its $27,000 goal.
Rhiannon Ingle