A woman was hospitalized yesterday afternoon after two roaming dogs attacked her on San Antonio's West Side near a homeless encampment, turning a quiet stretch of Holy Cross into an active bite investigation.
The attack happened around 1 p.m. in the 200 block of Holy Cross. The woman was bitten on her arm and upper body before being taken to a local hospital for treatment. Animal Care Services (ACS) said three dogs had been reported roaming in the area and two of them carried out the attack. The owner was issued citations for dog bites, allowing dogs to roam and failing to have current rabies vaccinations while officers continued their investigation, according to KENS5.
How the city investigates
The next steps for the dogs involved can depend heavily on what the victim does on paper. San Antonio Report notes that ACS's ability to pursue tougher enforcement often hinges on whether a victim files a notarized "dangerous dog" affidavit, which can trigger a fuller investigation and stronger remedies. If a case meets the legal threshold, ACS can request seizure or impoundment of animals and recommend criminal citations under state and local rules, according to San Antonio Report.
Bite numbers and recent maulings
The broader bite picture in San Antonio is not exactly comforting. The San Antonio Express-News reported that ACS recorded nearly 300 severe bites in fiscal 2023 and has covered a string of high-profile maulings in recent years. Television reporting from KSAT has documented several multi-dog attacks that left victims seriously injured and prompted criminal citations.
What neighbors can do
Officials and watchdog reporting urge residents not to shrug off loose or aggressive dogs. People are encouraged to call 311 when they see roaming animals and, if bitten, to complete the dangerous-dog affidavit so ACS can pursue fuller enforcement, the San Antonio Report says. Where it is safe to do so, photos, timestamps and witness contact information can help investigators build a case that may lead to citations, impoundment or other steps to protect the public.
Animal Care Services said it is handling the investigation and has issued citations to the dog's owner, per KENS5. This story will be updated if ACS or local authorities release additional details.
