Elderly Woman Airlifted After Dog Attack

On 05-27-19 just after 7:30 a.m., a call was received in the Emergency Communications Center regarding an elderly female who had just been attacked by three dogs.

Operators immediately dispatched Hernando County Fire Rescue (HCFR), a patrol deputy, and an animal enforcement officer to the scene.

The caller had placed the victim in a black pickup truck and was waiting alongside Spring Lake Highway for first responders to arrive. As they waited, the caller performed basic first aid on the victim’s wounds. The victim was suffering from severe dog bites to both of her legs.

The caller told operators that the three dogs that attacked the victim, described at pit-bulls, were still running loose in the area.

Due to the severity of the injuries, the victim was treated on scene by HCFR and then airlifted to a trauma center for advanced care.

Investigation revealed the elderly female was out walking on Spring Lake Highway, something she normally does, when the dogs attacked her. The person who called saw that something was wrong and stopped to provide assistance.

When deputies and animal enforcement officers arrived and attempted to collect the dogs, one or more of the dogs attempted to attack the deputies/animal enforcement officers. Bean bag rounds were utilized to subdue the dogs. The dogs were then collected and taken to Hernando County Animal Services.

The owner of the dogs has been identified as Ralph Hughes of Church Road in Brooksville. Hughes was cited as follows:
• Public Nuisance Animal – Second Offense (3 counts)
• Unrestrained Animal (3 counts).

Mr. Hughes has surrendered all three dogs for euthanasia, as he believes they are too aggressive. He does not want them back. It should be noted, all three dogs are licensed and current on all shots.

The victim is listed in stable condition.

There is no additional information available at this time.