by Cullman County, Alabama — A teenager is being praised for his quick and courageous actions after saving a 9-year-old girl who was brutally attacked by a dog outside an apartment building on Nov. 7. The terrifying incident left the child with severe injuries and renewed concerns about dog safety in residential neighborhoods.
Teen Steps In as Dog Attacks Child
According to the family, Delyla McCay, 9, had been sitting on the front steps of her apartment building in Cullman County with her 13-year-old sister, McKenzie, when the dog—a blue heeler—suddenly lunged at her. The animal clamped onto her face and refused to let go.
“Mommy, it grabbed my face and it was just shaking,” Delyla told her mother, Katie McCay, in a statement to WBRC.
Her mother said the attack came without warning and stressed that Delyla had done nothing to provoke the dog.
“I’ve never dealt with nothing like that in my life and I just wouldn’t wish it on anybody. My kid was just sitting there. She’s so sweet,” McCay said.
McKenzie screamed for help as the dog held onto her sister’s face. That’s when a nearby teenager heard the cries and ran straight toward the struggle.
Teen Punches Dog Until It Lets Go
According to the family, the teen intervened immediately, punching the dog repeatedly until it released Delyla. In the process, the teen was also bitten, but continued fighting to free the child.
Moments later, the blue heeler lunged again—this time attacking Delyla’s back, according to reporting by the New York Post. The second attack worsened the injuries and left responders stunned by the severity of the wounds.
Child Facing Surgery and Rabies Treatment
Doctors have informed the family that Delyla will need plastic surgery to repair the facial damage, along with rabies shots as a precaution. Her injuries to both the face and back were described as extensive.
Her mother said the family is struggling to process what happened, calling it the most frightening moment they have ever experienced. Community members have reached out with support for the young girl as she begins what is expected to be a long recovery process.
Dog Euthanized After the Attack
Cullman County Animal Control confirmed that the dog has been euthanized following the incident. Authorities are still reviewing the circumstances surrounding the attack, including information about the dog’s owner and any past behavioral issues.
Officials have not released additional details, but the incident has prompted renewed conversations about dog safety, control laws, and the responsibilities of pet owners in community settings.
Community Recognizes Teen as a Hero
Neighbors and residents have called the teen’s actions heroic, noting that without his intervention the outcome could have been far worse.
The McCay family also expressed deep gratitude for the teen who risked his own safety to save Delyla.
Local residents say the quick-thinking teenager acted with bravery beyond his years. Community leaders have praised him for stepping in when seconds mattered most.
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Parents and Residents Urge Greater Awareness
The attack has sparked discussions about animal safety around children, especially in shared spaces like apartment complexes. Many parents in the area say they plan to be more cautious and hope the incident serves as a reminder of how unpredictable animals can be.
Delyla’s family said they are sharing her story to encourage responsible pet ownership and to help other families stay alert.
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