A 5-year-old girl narrowly avoided losing her hand after a violent dog attack earlier this month, and her father was injured while stepping in to save her, according to family members.
The incident happened Monday, Jan. 5. The child, identified as Jazz, was attacked by a dog, prompting her father, Phil, to intervene despite the danger. He suffered bite injuries while pulling the dog away from his daughter.
Due to the severity of Jazz’s injuries, she was airlifted to a larger hospital several towns away, where doctors performed emergency vascular surgery. Surgeons were able to save her hand, which had been at risk of amputation. The procedure involved using a vein from her leg to restore blood flow to her injured hand.
Family members described the attack as traumatic and life-altering. Jazz faces a long recovery that will include ongoing medical care and physical therapy. Her mother is expected to take extended leave from work to care for her during rehabilitation.
The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover mounting medical expenses and lost income. As of Jan. 16, the fundraiser had raised more than $11,000 toward a $24,000 goal.
Relatives say the emotional toll has been significant, but they are grateful for the medical team’s efforts and the community support that has followed.
The circumstances surrounding the dog attack, including where it occurred and who owned the animal, have not been publicly detailed.