Teenage Girl, 17, Nearly Killed in Vicious Dog Mauling by Pack of 16 Unleashed Animals – Here’s How You Can Protect Yourself

A 17-year-old girl is lucky to be alive after being viciously attacked by a pack of 16 unleashed dogs while jogging near her home in Newberry Springs, California. The brutal mauling left her with life-threatening injuries and raises urgent questions about dog safety in rural communities.

Tracy Azpeitia, a high school student, was on her usual morning run on July 17 when the dogs, described as large and unrestrained, swarmed her in a terrifying ambush. The attack was so severe that her own mother didn’t recognize her when she arrived at the scene.  

"I thought they had ripped her arms off," said Maria Azpeitia, Tracy’s mother. "She was covered in dirt and blood, I only recognized her by her bra."

Tracy suffered more than 500 stitches from bites, lacerations, and deep scratches. After weeks in the hospital, she is now recovering at home but still cannot walk on her own.  

How the Attack Happened – And What Saved Her Life  

Tracy was jogging on a quiet dirt road near her home when the pack of dogs surrounded her. A vigilant neighbor heard her screams and called 911, likely saving her life.  

Her stepfather, Carlos Ramirez, described the injuries as "every parent’s worst nightmare."

"It wasn’t just one or two dogs, it was a whole pack," he said. "They bit every part of her body except her ankles."

Authorities seized 16 dogs from a nearby property where they were allegedly kept without proper fencing or leashes. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has launched a criminal investigation, and the dogs are now being held at the Barstow Humane Society.  

Could This Have Been Prevented? Safety Tips to Avoid Dog Attacks 

While this was an extreme case, dog attacks are more common than many realize. Here’s how to protect yourself and your family:  

If You’re Confronted by an Aggressive Dog: 

• Don’t Run – This can trigger a chase instinct. Instead, stand still and avoid direct eye contact.  
• Use a Barrier – If possible, put something between you and the dog (a backpack, bike, or stick).  
• Firm Commands – Yelling "No!" or "Go home!" in a deep, authoritative voice can sometimes stop an attack.  
• Protect Your Neck and Face – If knocked down, curl into a ball and cover your head with your arms.  

For Dog Owners:

• Secure Your Pets – Proper fencing and leashes are a must, especially for large or territorial breeds.  
• Socialize and Train – Dogs with aggression issues need professional training before interacting with strangers.  
• Know the Law – In many states, owners are financially and legally responsible if their dog attacks someone.  

For Communities:

• Report Loose Dogs – If you see aggressive strays, notify animal control immediately.  
• Push for Stronger Laws – Advocate for leash laws and penalties for negligent owners.  

Tracy’s  Warning for Others 

A GoFundMe has been set up to help cover Tracy’s medical expenses, which include multiple surgeries and long-term rehabilitation. Her family hopes her story will prevent future tragedies.  

"She was just a girl going for a run," her mother said. "This should never have happened."

As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: Awareness and preparedness can mean the difference between life and death in a dog attack.  

Stay safe, stay alert, and share these tips to protect others.