# Concerns Over Dog Attacks in Rural Edinburg as Animal Control Responds
In a concerning incident that has raised alarms in the Rio Grande Valley community, Hidalgo County Animal Control has intervened to capture four dogs accused of attacking two teenage sisters in a rural area of Edinburg. This event underscores the persistent issues of stray and aggressive animals in the region, prompting discussions on public safety and animal control measures.
## The Incident
The alarming episode unfolded as Janie Hernandez and her sister walked to their school bus stop one morning along Bella Drive, rural Edinburg. “My sister was screaming because there was one big dog next to her,” Janie recalled. “There was one big dog trying to bite my face, and the other three dogs were at my legs.”
This recent attack echoes a previous encounter the sisters experienced in November 2024. “They bit me again, just like before,” Janie mentioned, highlighting the ongoing nature of the threat. Despite the alarming nature of these attacks, fortunately, the girls escaped without severe injuries, seeking routine hospital checkups after each incident.
## Local Authorities & Animal Control’s Response
After multiple appeals from Laura Hernandez, the girls’ mother, for assistance, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office received three formal reports documenting the aggressive encounters. Although Laura previously reached out to animal control, she felt frustrated by the delay in action: “We called animal control, and they said they were going to come but never did.”
However, following the latest attack, Hidalgo County Animal Control stepped in, successfully capturing four aggressive dogs from the neighborhood. According to a statement from the Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Animal Control Division: “Our team has responded to each reported incident. While previous attempts to locate the animals were not successful, we were able to retrieve four canines from the area, which will be transported to a local shelter for further assessment and care.”
### Community Impact and Reaction
For residents of the Valley, incidents involving animal attacks prompt anxiety, questioning animal control’s readiness to respond to such threats. In a region characterized by both urban and rural landscapes, residents often encounter stray animals, sometimes posing severe risks to safety.
Laura Hernandez believes the removal of the aggressive dogs brings peace of mind, stating, “I feel calmer, knowing my kids can go to school safely.” Local parents share similar concerns, advocating for stricter regulations and a more robust animal control presence in addressing the issue.
In response, animal control authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing vigilance and support for community safety. Ideas such as increased patrols and collaborations with neighborhood organizations could potentially mitigate future risks posed by stray animals.
### Ongoing Struggles and Community Involvement
Despite the recent intervention, the RGV continues confronting stray animal issues, influenced by factors including economic challenges and lack of adequate shelters. Addressing these concerns involves community awareness, with residents encouraged to report aggressive animals and participate in local initiatives supporting humane treatment and control measures.
Mary Davila, a spokesperson for local animal welfare, emphasized the value of community role: “Residents’ vigilance and cooperation with animal services are crucial in maintaining public and animal safety. We must work together toward solutions, including adoption drives, spaying and neutering campaigns, and legal reforms.”
### Looking Ahead
A focus on enhancing community safety while ensuring compassionate animal treatment remains imperative for RGV authorities and residents. Long-term strategies could involve expanding shelter capacities, launching educational programs, and empowering community members with the resources to report animal-related concerns promptly.
Hidalgo County Animal Control encourages residents to remain informed about pet ownership responsibilities and to report stray or aggressive animals immediately. Contact details and more information can be accessed through their official platforms.
As Janie and her sister return to their daily routines with newfound peace, the region’s efforts to prevent similar incidents must continue. The involvement of the entire community will be key in fostering a safe and harmonious environment for both residents and animals within the vibrant neighborhoods of the Rio Grande Valley.
This story highlights the intricate ties between residents, animal services, and the broader push for community welfare—an ongoing journey toward improving life in South Texas for all.
