Mother Thankful Daughter Is Alive After Dog Attack

A pit bull named Juvey sits quietly in a kennel while his 8-year-old mauling victim, Yesenia Cruz, lays in intensive care at Carolinas Medical Center. WSOC-TV Pit Bull Attack Back

The victim's mother, Dana Cruz, said she feels blessed her daughter is still alive.

"She fought him off very bravely and it did not get the best of her. Her spirits are very high," she said.

But Yesenia Cruz's body is weak after multiple bites to her back, shoulder and groin.

Her mother had dropped off Yesenia Cruz and her 14-year-old sister at a co-worker's house in east Charlotte Saturday to have their hair done. The pit bull accidentally got into an enclosed patio where Yesenia was playing. VIDEO: Girl In Hospital After Pit Bull Attack

"We checked this address and the previous address where the animal lived, and there were no calls for service for this animal," said Animal Control Capt. Tammy Williams.

Dogs can be declared dangerous if they meet certain criteria. A recent pilot project in west Charlotte had patrol officers documenting when they encountered such animals during any call for service.

Williams said it was very successful.

"In the majority of those cases, there was an issue. Some were in compliance, some were not, and some were not being contained properly. So it was beneficial. A lot of them were not registered," said Williams.

In this case, the dog's owner has surrendered him to the city, which means after a state mandated 10-day quarantine, Juvey will be euthanized.

"My reaction is: I think they should. Seeing my daughter's wounds, that dog is vicious. The first attack absolutely should be the last attack," said Dana Cruz.