Bear Attack Cassie French Bulldog Trinity County
A French bulldog named Cassie died after intervening in a black bear attack on her owners, Jeff and Mallory Wilson, at their rural Trinity County home on
A cinnamon bear attacked Jeff and Mallory Wilson in northern California on 19 September, injuring both and killing their dog Cassie two days later. The incident occurred in the early hours at the couple's rural Trinity County home.
Jeff Wilson let Cassie outside after the dog woke him with a bark. When Jeff went back out to let the French bulldog inside, a black bear charged him. The couple believes the bear panicked after being cornered between the house’s small fence and an open gate.
Cassie’s intervention
Cassie placed herself between Jeff and the bear. In that moment, the bear grabbed the dog with its mouth and started to run away. The bear also slammed Jeff Wilson into the side of his home, breaking two of his ribs.
The couple’s response
Mallory Wilson was roused by sounds of a struggle and ran outside. She saw the bear had Cassie in its mouth. Mallory grabbed a piece of patio furniture and struck the bear in an effort to free the dog. She then threw a chair at the bear, causing it to drop Cassie. Jeff shoved a patio heater into the bear, which then ran off after also attacking Mallory. The bear knocked Mallory down and grabbed her by the back of the head, injuring her neck.
Aftermath and loss
Cassie was rushed into emergency surgery for multiple bite wounds and deep cuts along her spine. Two days after surgery, the bulldog started walking and drinking water on her own. Cassie died the very next morning after showing those signs of recovery.
According to a fundraising page, Mallory sustained serious head and face injuries, a broken hand, and additional bite and puncture wounds. Jeff suffered two broken ribs and numerous bite and claw wounds. Both are facing continued medical treatment and recovery.
Remembering Cassie
Rachel Moscon described Cassie as a 7.5-year-old bulldog and a beloved member of the Wilson family. Mallory Wilson said the dog was never meant to be a hero or a guard dog, but was just their sweet indoor lap baby. Cassie was a deeply loved member of the family.
The couple continues to face ongoing medical care, including rabies vaccinations and follow-up appointments, while coping with the loss of their dog.
