KAUFMAN COUNTY, Texas — In rural areas, it’s not uncommon for animals to run at large. In Kaufman County, it appears to some to be an epidemic.
KAUFMAN COUNTY, Texas — In rural areas, it’s not uncommon for animals to run at large. In Kaufman County, it appears to some to be an epidemic.
Recently, Kaufman County resident Isabella Ford was attacked by four Pit Bulls while walking down the street. Pit Bulls are naturally pack animals, and when the four attacked Isabella Ford, they worked as a team.
James Whitaker, the Public Information Officer for the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO), stated that the dog in question was caught and brought in for testing.
“Regarding Ms. Ford, the animal in this matter was identified and transported to the veterinarian clinic for testing per state policy. The other animals involved were quarantined for a period of 10 days per state policy,” stated Officer Whitaker.
If you are concerned that this is a problem within the community, the data from the Sheriff’s Office validates that concern.
“From January 1, 2023, to October 16, 2023, the Sheriff’s Office responded to 81 stray dog calls for service where a report was taken and 64 dog bite-related calls where a report was generated,” stated Whitaker in an email to inForney.com.
If there is good news to be found, this number in 2023 is lower than the same period in 2022. Whitaker provided the data from January 1, 2022, to October 16, 2022.
“From January 1, 2022, to October 16, 2022, the Sheriff’s Office responded to 130 stray dog calls for service where a report was generated and 79 dog bite-related calls where a report was generated.”
As to how the KCSO handles these matters, they have to follow state and local law.
“The Kaufman County Sheriff’s office is following the guidelines set forth by the 'Texas Administrative Code' and the Kaufman County, Texas Animal Control Order,” stated Whitaker.
The City of Houston has information that may be useful if you are faced with a stray animal and have safety concerns.
“Dogs that bite feel threatened or afraid for some reason, and instinctively react by attacking,” states the City of Houston BARC website. “It's important for you to know how to act and react around a dog you don't know to help prevent a potentially dangerous situation.”
City of Houston BARC recommends that you stay calm, soften your eyes and body posture, relax, and slowly back away from the animal. If you get attacked, find something the dog can bite down on instead; never pull away while the dog has a hold of you - as that can further the damage. Find a way to protect your head and face.
It’s also essential for owners of the animals to take responsibility. If you have dogs, ensure they are fenced in on your property and are up-to-date on their vaccinations. You could potentially be liable if your animal attacks someone while running at large.
Regarding space in the shelter for stray animals, Whitaker says the KCSO is monitoring that closely.
“The Kaufman County Pet Adoption Center can hold a certain number of animals in their shelter. The Sheriff’s Office is working closely with the shelter and their current occupancy.”
To report strays, groups of animals at-large, or those causing a nuisance or concern, call the Kaufman County Sheriff's Office's dispatch at (469) 376-4598. In an emergency, call 911.