Minneapolis mother released from hospital nearly a month after dog attack

Nearly a month has passed, but a Minneapolis mother has finally returned home from the hospital after she and her two boys were attacked by a neighbor’s dogs.

It happened last month in the Lyn Park neighborhood. According to a report from Minneapolis Animal Care and Control, rescue workers described the mother’s injuries as so severe that “she may not make it.”

“These dogs were out for blood,” said Angel Rivers, the victim of the dog attack.

Angel Rivers says it happened at her Minneapolis home on Hall Curve on May 22. Her two young boys were playing outside on the trampoline when her neighbor’s two dogs jumped the fence and attacked them.

“Seeing them being attacked by dogs was just… I didn’t have time to think,” Rivers said. “I just knew I had to defend them because they couldn’t defend themselves.”

Rivers’ 8-year-old son made it into the house, but as she tried to pull her 3-year-old son to safety, a dog bit her in the leg and she fell. All she could do was protect her son as the dogs continued to bite her.

“He was fine, so I was fine, even though I was in a lot of pain,” Rivers said. “I was able to use my body as a shield and he was fine.”

Rivers’ injuries are severe and have required several skin grafts in recent weeks.

“I still have to teach my hand to pick things up,” Rivers said.

“These were things you never want to see,” said Kani Jackson, Angel’s fiancée.

Kani Jackson says his family is still adjusting to a new way of life.

“I could have buried my family, but they’re alive, so that’s what I’m focused on,” Jackson said.

Outside their home, there is an outpouring of support from many in the community, welcoming the family home and showing them that they are not alone on this journey.

“I’m so grateful, I’m so happy, I’m so blessed to still be here,” Rivers said.

Minneapolis Animal Control seized the two dogs immediately after the attack. The owner received a citation, but the citation was later rescinded. According to a report from Minneapolis Animal Control, the case is still pending investigation by the Department of Emergency Management.

Rivers says it could take up to a year for a full recovery. Click here if you would like to help the family recover.