Trinity County, California – A French Bulldog named Cassie tried to help her humans when a bear attacked. Unfortunately, the animal encounter proved fatal for the seven‑year‑old dog.
On September 19, Jeff went outside his home in Burnt Ranch, California, outside Trinity Country, with his French bulldog when a bear suddenly attacked.
Cass didn't hesitate: "Cassie threw herself between Jeff and the bear in an effort to protect him," Rachel Moscon, a family friend, writes in a GoFundMe post.
Mallory was sleeping but woke to screams and ran outside.
She tried to strike the animal with a piece of yard furniture, but the bear then turned its attention to her.
It knocked Mallory to the ground and grabbed her by the back of the head before finally fleeing the property.
All three family members were injured in the brutal attack.
Cassie the dog has sadly died of her injuries
The couple who operate the Radio Ranch glamping retreat in Burnt Ranch ended up at the hospital, per the San Francisco Chronicle.
Jeff suffered two broken ribs and several bite and scratch wounds. Mallory sustained multiple serious injuries to her head and face, as well as other bite and puncture wounds, according to the GoFundMe post.
Cassie was found on the patio and taken to an emergency veterinary hospital. Two days after the attack, the heroic dog died due to her injuries.
"Cassie was never meant to be a guard dog," Mallory told local news, KRON4.
"She was a beloved indoor lapdog, and we are heartbroken that she ever had to be in the position to fight for her life. We believe her actions helped save our lives."
Cassie's humans will never forget the dog that saved their lives and was an essential part of their family.