A Roaming Pack of 40 Wild Dogs Alarms Residents in North Texas Community

Residents in Godley, Texas, are reporting that packs of abandoned dogs have become a growing concern, raising fears about safety and animal welfare.

Homeowners in Godley’s Star Ranch subdivision told NBC DFW that the animals, often seen roaming near new housing developments, appear malnourished and at risk of disease. One resident said she regularly sees groups of dogs near the neighborhood and worries “they’re going to get hit, or they’re going to attack somebody.”

NBC DFW reported that the Godley Police Department confirmed it has received multiple calls about loose dogs in recent months, including reports of upwards of 40 dogs being seen on the streets at one time.

“We have seen the increase of dogs, not only quantity of dogs in the pack, but how often they’re coming through during the daytime, as well,” Taylor Weicht, who lives in the Star Ranch subdivision, told the outlet.

Another resident, Bruce Moats, reported seeing a pack of dogs run toward their car.

“At this point, we now have dogs — feral dogs, obviously sick, obviously having issues, trying to find food, that are out and about at the same time that our children are on the streets,” he said.

According to the City of Godley’s website, the city does not currently employ a full-time animal control officer. Animal Control calls are the responsibility of the local police. Police officers respond to calls about aggressive dogs, large animals blocking roadways, and potential rabies cases.

PEOPLE reached out to Godley Animal Control and the Godley Police Department and did not receive an immediate response.

Johnson County Commissioner Rick Bailey told NBC DFW that the county does not have the authority to address the wild dog pack situation, and that county shelters are full even if officials could pick up the canines.

The rise in wild dog complaints comes as new developments expand into previously rural areas of North Texas. Some residents of the Star Ranch subdivision believe the packs of dogs are partly made up of pets abandoned by their owners.

“It’s cruel, and it’s dangerous,” one homeowner said of the situation.

According to NBC DFW, Godley City Council Member Michael Matos plans to address the wild dog issue at the next city council meeting, including proposing a new rule against pet dumping.