Neighbors say dogs not on leashes, attacking people is a growing problem.
Madison County Animal Control increased patrol on Wess Taylor Road due to several calls and complaints about dogs roaming around attacking people and animals.
Donna Brown has lived in the Ryland Pike neighborhood for more than 15 years. She says recently dogs in her area have been roaming without leashes wreaking havoc.
“I’m 60 years old, and I should not have to worry about walking in my neighborhood and be concerned about animals attacking me,” Brown said.
A few weeks ago a pack of dogs attacked her while she was walking.
“About approximately 10 to 12 dogs after me barking and I really loudly told them to stop in the name of Jesus, ” Brown said.
The Madison County Animal Control Director Mike Fritz says so far four dogs have been impounded since upping their patrol. Fritz says because Madison County doesn’t have a leash law, they can’t impound a dog unless animal control sees it at large.
From October 2023 to May 2024, Madison County Animal Control has responded to over 2400 complaints in the county.
Fritz says if you come in contact with a dog that doesn’t belong to you, do not run.
“I know it’s hard to stand there and let that dog come up and sniff around but give them a chance to get settled down and maybe walk off and just ease off but stay quiet and stay calm,” Fritz said.
Fritz says running could spook the dog and bring out its natural instincts to attack.
Donna says since animal control has upped their patrol, she hopes things will soon go back to normal.
“Hopefully one day I’ll be able to walk down this street like I’ve done in years past and not have any issues with dogs coming after me,” Brown said.
If you have similar issues with animals in your area, call your local animal control.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
