City Provides Insight on Animal Attack That Killed Dog

SAN ANGELO, TX — The City of San Angelo's Animal Services has released a statement after a dog was fatally attacked outside a home near Cornerstone Christian School and Brentwood Daycare, clarifying that the animals involved were javelinas, not feral hogs.

The incident drew public attention earlier this week when San Angelo resident Michelle Minjarez posted on Facebook that a pack of about 12 “aggressive feral hogs” had attacked her dog, which later died from its injuries.

Minjarez said the animals were chasing pets, roaming the streets, and even trying to get inside homes. She also raised concerns for children in the neighborhood.

“I live next to Cornerstone Private School and Brentwood Daycare," Minjarez stated. "Kids run around here for track, ride bikes, and play outside daily. Am I supposed to just wait until it’s a child instead of a pet?”

She expressed frustration that San Angelo police, Animal Control, and the Texas Game Warden each pointed responsibility at another agency, leaving residents unsure who should act.

On Friday, Animal Services Manager Amanda Weddle confirmed her office responded to an after-hours call about the dog’s life-threatening injuries. Because Animal Services staff are not licensed veterinarians, the owner was referred to a veterinary professional for treatment and humane euthanasia.

Weddle stated that the animals were javelinas, not feral hogs, and said her office confirmed with the Texas Game Warden that intervention to remove them is not recommended.

“Javelinas are native to the area and often travel through natural corridors such as riverbeds," Weddle stated. "While not typically aggressive, they may act defensively if they feel threatened."

She added that relocating healthy wildlife is not a long-term solution and can create a “vacuum effect” that draws other animals into the area, increasing the risk of conflict.

To help residents and pets coexist safely with wildlife, Animal Services recommends the following:

• Restrain pets: Keep dogs leashed and don’t leave pets unattended outdoors.
• Vaccinate pets: Wildlife can transmit diseases to domestic animals.
• Educate children: Teach them not to approach or disturb wildlife.
• Maintain property: Trim vegetation and remove food sources like fallen fruit, birdseed, and pet food.
• Secure trash: Use wildlife-resistant containers.
• Report concerns: Contact authorities if wildlife appears injured or is approaching people.

Residents can also deter wildlife using motion-activated lights, sprinklers or noise devices. If wildlife is encountered, do not approach. Instead, make yourself appear larger and use loud noises – such as clapping, yelling, whistles or air horns – to encourage the animal to leave. These techniques help maintain safe boundaries between people and wildlife, according to information shared from Animal Services. 

“Animal Services remains committed to community education, safety, and responsible animal care,” Weddle said.

City Councilman Joe Self told San Angelo LIVE! he is looking into the situation.