The family of a seven-year-old girl attacked by a pack of dogs in California have been sleeping in their car to remain close to her during her hospital treatment. Patricia suffered severe injuries to her scalp and legs in the incident, which occurred in the Corning area of Tehama County on June 27, according to the Tehama County Sheriff's Office.
Attack and Emergency Response
The Tehama County Sheriff's Office said in a press release that Patricia was attacked by a pack of dogs, sustaining significant wounds to her scalp and legs. She was initially taken to a local hospital before being airlifted to UC Davis Medical Center, an out-of-area trauma centre, for advanced medical treatment. An online fundraiser launched by her grandmother, Monica Edmiston, described the attack as “horrific,” stating that the “dogs ripped her scalp off and left her with numerous wounds all over her body.” Patricia underwent emergency surgery at UC Davis Medical Center.
Family's Sacrifice and Community Support
Monica Edmiston revealed that Patricia's father and brothers were sleeping in their car in Sacramento to remain close to Patricia while she was in hospital. The family needed help covering basic necessities such as gas and food, leading Edmiston to set up the fundraiser. The fundraiser raised more than $4,100. On June 29, an update stated: “Patricia is doing so much better. She is still really scared but thank God she is a strong little girl. She has a long road of recovery ahead.” A further update on July 1 indicated Patricia would return home on July 2. Edmiston thanked the community for their support, saying: “The love the town of Corning showed was overwhelming.”
School and Investigation
The Corning Union Elementary School District shared a message of support on Facebook, identifying Patricia as one of its students and wishing her a speedy recovery. The Tehama County Sheriff's Office reported that six dogs believed to be involved in the incident were seized as evidence and transported to the Tehama County Animal Shelter. The investigation into the attack remains ongoing.
