Independence woman has foot amputated after mauling by American bulldog

A 55-year-old rural Independence woman has had a foot amputated and remained hospitalized Tuesday, a day after an attack by her 110-pound American bulldog.

Dora Pennington’s condition reportedly worsened during an operation to remove a foot that was badly damaged in the attack.

Deputies with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department killed the dog, which was still “actively aggressive” when they answered the call for help in the 27000 block of Heidelberger Road.

Deputies used a tourniquet on one of the woman’s legs. Both of her feet were severely damaged, according to the sheriff’s office. Much of her hair was ripped out and most of her clothing was torn off, deputies reported.

The dog’s remains will be tested for rabies.

Independence Animal Control officers said the dog previously had bitten two people.

This story was originally published November 17, 2015 at 5:53 PM with the headline "Independence woman has foot amputated after mauling by American bulldog."