The family of a 3-year-old girl is grappling with the devastating aftermath of a pit bull dog attack at a restaurant in Old Town Spring, Texas. The dog was wearing a service vest at the time of the incident, leaving the possibility of lifelong damage for the child.
The girl’s father, James Waldroup, recounted that he had to chase the woman and her dog after the traumatic incident.
According to a family friend, Kimberly Parker, she took the 3-year-old girl, Ronin, into the restaurant while the parents stayed behind to fold the stroller. As they approached the restaurant line, the child came face to face with the dog.
The dog grabbed Ronin’s face and shook her, causing Kimberly to recall the horrific incident. The woman pulled on the leash, causing the dog to let go, and Ronin fell to the ground like a rag doll.
After the attack, Ronin’s mother, Cleveratta Gordon-Waldroup, took her to the restroom to assess her injuries. Meanwhile, James chased after the woman who had fled the restaurant with the dog.
When he finally caught up with her, he told her to stay because of what had happened. The woman responded by shouting, “It’s your daughter’s fault,” according to James.
Amidst the chaos, onlookers were capturing the unfolding events on their cameras. A man can be seen confronting and driving away the dog owner. Meanwhile, Waldroup managed to snap a photo of the woman and her license plate.
A GoFundMe page was created to aid Ronin’s family, revealing that the 3-year-old was taken to the hospital where she received 15 stitches on her face. Although doctors have informed the parents that the chances of severe scarring are low, they advised them to consult with a plastic surgeon.
Ronin’s mother expressed concern that her daughter may experience mental trauma and be constantly reminded of the attack when she sees herself in the mirror.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that they are aware of the dog owner’s identity and have arranged a meeting with her.
The family is demanding that the owner of the dog be held accountable for their pet’s actions.
Cleveratta, the mother, stated that it is unacceptable that the dog owner did not show any compassion or remorse, nor stopped to inquire about the well-being of her child.
All dog owners should take responsibility for their pet’s behavior. If a dog has the potential to harm someone, it should not be allowed in a public space where it can harm others.