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Chihuahua named Bear helps woman survive actual bear attack

Melinda LeBarron was still in critical condition almost 48 hours after the attack.
FILE PHOTO: Viviane, an Asian black bear is back at home in the African reserve of Sigean on July 9, 2013 after 15 days of freedom when she escaped from her enclosure. (RAYMOND ROIG/AFP/Getty Images)

Note: The above photo of a bear is a file photo and is not the actual bear who attacked the woman.

(AP) Family members of a Pennsylvania woman who survived being severely bitten by a black bear say she's crediting her Chihuahua mix dog named Bear with helping save her life.

Hospital officials said Friday that 51-year-old Melinda LeBarron was in critical condition, nearly two days after the attack outside her home in a rural area near Muncy.

LeBarron's son says before she could speak, she used a pad to ask how Bear the dog was doing.

Trent LeBarron says she emphatically signaled the dog helped save her by trying to protect her from the large animal.

Melinda LeBarron was dragged about 80 yards before she could climb a bush and the bear left.

Trent LeBarron says his mother has broken bones, cuts and bruises and multiple bites.

Wildlife officials told WNEP-TV they are trying to track the bear.

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