Thousands are injured in dog bites and animal attacks each year. In fact, there were about4.7 million dog bite victims annually in the country. A more recent study showed that 1,000 Americans per day are treated in emergency rooms as a result of dog bites. In 2010 alone, there were 34 fatal dog attacks reported and most of the victims are children. Dog bite losses have exceeded $1 billion per year, with over $300 million paid by homeowners insurance.

Take the case of Lyn Wilheim and a friend who were walking along Route 322 in Middle Paxton Township, Dauphin County when they encounter an abandoned American bull dog mix. The dog looks so abused, very thin, fearful and seems to be in need of a veterinarian treatment.

Having a kind heart to animals, Wilheim took the dog home, fed, pampered and provided proper veterinarian treatment. Never had she imagined that the dog she once saved will soon be the cause of her tragic pain and injuries.

One day at a park, while Wilhiem was walking along with the dog, suddenly the dog went wild, attacked Wilheim and gravely bit her both arms. Upon hearing the animal attack, nearby policemen immediately went off to rescue Wilheim.

Due to the injuries and dog bites she obtained, Wilheim was brought to Harrisburg Hospital but soon transferred to Hershey Medical Center where she received full medical attention.

Wilheim probably hold on to her belief that the abandoned dog she took care of would never think of hurting her due to the love and affection she gave to the dog. Now, she learned her lesson that whatever positive signs to show to an animal, it’s still an animal, definitely having a heart but without emotions as humans have. Even if dogs are man’s best friend, best friends sometimes are bounded to be your worst enemy.

According to Wilheim’s family, the woman is still on her process of recovery and may receive plastic surgery soon. Moreover, as a precaution, she was given rabies shots.