CLEVELAND, Texas – Residents of the Santa Fe subdivision in Cleveland, are living in fear after a series of stray dog attacks. Packs of aggressive dogs have been spotted roaming the area, with some residents sharing alarming stories of being attacked outside their homes.
ORIGINAL STORY: KPRC 2 witnesses vicious dog attacks during report in Liberty County
Photos show the bite marks left on victims, underscoring the seriousness of the problem.
KPRC 2 Reporter Corley Peel visited the Liberty County Commissioner’s Courthouse to get answers from Judge Jay Knight.
County faces challenges without animal control
Judge Knight explained that Liberty County does not have an animal control department, citing funding limitations as a key hurdle. He stated that he is working with the county attorney to find solutions, but for now, residents remain at risk.
While in the Santa Fe neighborhood, KPRC 2 witnessed firsthand the aggressive behavior of stray dogs. A pack of dogs ran alongside the station’s vehicle, barking as they approached.
Earlier in the day, KPRC 2 photojournalist Damon Sales encountered a man trying to control a group of dogs he had taken off the streets, highlighting the complexity of the situation.
Public health concerns
The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office responds to dog bite calls but faces challenges when trying to handle stray animals. Without a county shelter, deputies must rely on animal control services from nearby cities, which are not always available after hours.
Shelby Bobosky, Executive Director of the Texas Humane Legislation Network, has raised concerns about the lack of animal control services in Liberty County, calling it a “public health crisis.” She noted that under Texas law, counties with populations of 75,000 or more are advised to have an animal shelter or advisory committee.
Call to action for residents
Bobosky urged residents in areas without animal control to speak up.
“I urge everyone in rural areas that do not have a city or county shelter to go to your elected officials and commissioner court meetings and ask them to fund an animal shelter,” she said.
As the situation unfolds, Liberty County officials are being pressed to prioritize funding for animal control to protect public safety. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to report stray dog sightings and remain vigilant.