A Polk County woman was hospitalized with serious injuries after being attacked by a dog she was fostering.
According to law enforcement officials and family, T fostered a pit bull from a rescue called Rescue Paws on May 11.
A Polk County Sheriff’s Office report said on the morning of May 12, T’s personal family dogs began barking, which startled the pit bull.
“The pit bull began barking and began jumping at Kimberly and attacked her,” the report stated. “Kimberly stated the dog originally jumped on her chest and then began biting her arms and tearing her skin.”
Following the attack, T’s daughter and neighbor called 911 for help.
“She really got bit a lot,” T’s child said.
According to the neighbor, Tscreamed for help and asked for someone to call 911.
Deputies said T needed surgery to repair the wounds on her arms. A GoFundMe for the victim stated the attack damaged the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in both arms, requiring her to be airlifted from Winter Haven to Lakeland Regional Medical Center.
Amanda Lippman with Rescue Paws, which is based in Broward County, said T was an experienced animal caregiver and a friend of the rescue.
“At the time of placement, the dog had no known history of aggression,” Lippman said. “The safety of our fosters, adopters, and animals is always our top priority, and the dog has been removed from the household. Rescue work is incredibly important and often complex, and we remain committed to supporting our foster and continuing our mission responsibly.”
As of the latest update, T has been sedated and is in the intensive care unit while she recovers. It is not known whether her arms will be usable after surgery.
The dog attack is still under investigation.
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Source: Wfla
