When Lauren Wiggins’ former partner stormed into their bedroom and began firing, both she and her beloved dog Judah were hit. Wiggins was shot twice in the right leg, while Judah was struck in the head and shoulder as he lunged to protect her.
Immediate aftermath
Both victims survived the initial gunfire. Wiggins recalled the chaos, saying, “My ex walked into our bedroom, grabbed his gun and started shooting.” Judah’s brave charge bought Wiggins precious seconds to escape, but the dog was left bleeding on the floor.
Wiggins initially feared Judah would not survive. “It was really emotional; my heart dropped in my stomach,” she said, remembering the moment she thought her loyal companion was dying.
New health concerns emerge
Months after the incident, a veterinarian discovered that bullet fragments remained lodged in Judah’s skull. The fragments have begun to shift, causing swelling and a hard lump on the top of his head. “I noticed that the middle of his head started to swell, and he developed this really hard lump,” Wiggins explained.
The diagnosis has been a source of ongoing distress for Wiggins, who feels deep guilt that Judah risked his life for hers. “I felt so much guilt that he stepped in to save me,” she said. “I wish in a lot of ways that he didn’t so that he wouldn’t have to be dealing with what he is now.”
Legal and financial struggles
Seeking restitution for the medical costs and trauma, Wiggins turned to the courts. The legal process, however, resulted only in a restraining order against her former partner, leaving her without any financial compensation. “The process of going through the courts trying to get restitution for what happened to Judah and I was terrible. We got nothing but a restraining order,” she lamented.
Facing mounting veterinary bills and the loss of income as the household’s sole provider, Wiggins appealed to the community for assistance.
Community response
The outpouring of support has been overwhelming. “It was really nice and overwhelming to see that people actually cared,” Wiggins said, noting how the generosity has helped her feel valued after a period of isolation.
Judah remains Wiggins’ primary companion, offering emotional stability amid the ongoing recovery. “He’s like the only thing that I was able to take with me after everything happened,” she added.
Looking ahead
Wiggins continues to seek medical treatment for Judah’s head injury while navigating the emotional and financial fallout of the shooting. The community’s assistance underscores the importance of local solidarity in times of personal crisis, especially when families face violence and its long‑term consequences.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
