Tigers seriously injure woman at animal sanctuary in Moorpark

MOORPARK, Calif. (KABC) -- It was a frightening scene at an animal sanctuary in Moorpark as the founder was seriously injured by several tigers during a special event for donors Saturday.

Wildlife Environmental Conservation founder Patty Perry suffered several cuts and puncture wounds.

"A lot of people I'm sure that saw it were horrified thinking the worst. She said it was obvious they were playing with her because they do love her. She raised them from babies," said Michael Bradbury, friend and WEC attorney.

Bradbury said Perry went into the tiger cage as she does every day.

"They began to play with her and the Bengal took both paws and wrapped them around her legs. She fell on the ground and another tiger jumped on her and began to pull on her before they got her out and she got some lacerations," Bradbury said.

Several witnesses including members of the fire department rushed to Perry's aid. Perry remained hospitalized as officials investigate.

Perry has 50 animals at her facility including zebras, birds of prey, and leopards.

Bradbury said animal control is aware of the incident but said he doesn't expect any repercussions.

"It's never happened before. She's gone in on hundreds of occasions," he said.

Bradbury added that Perry is heartbroken by what happened and said she knows the animals didn't mean to harm her. She plans on returning to her tigers as soon as she's released from the hospital.