A 92-year-old Pearsall man is in a San Antonio hospital with serious injuries after two dogs attacked him outside his home on Wednesday, according to local officials. Emergency crews rushed him from the scene, and Pearsall Animal Control officers later captured the dogs. Investigators say they have identified the animals' owner, who is cooperating with police as they work to piece together what happened.
What police say
Pearsall Police Chief Daniel Flores told WOAI the man was taken to a San Antonio hospital, where he remains in serious condition. Flores said Pearsall Animal Control apprehended the two dogs soon after the attack and confirmed that the dogs' owner is cooperating with the investigation. Police have not released the dogs' breeds or other identifying details while the case remains open.
Animal-control strain in a small city
Even before this attack, Pearsall officials had raised concerns about rising animal-control calls stretching a small department thin. Animal Control Officer Crystal Coronado told the Frio-Nueces Current she handled more than 100 animals in just three months, and city leaders have publicly discussed adding funding and staff to keep up. Advocates and officials say that kind of understaffing in smaller towns can slow responses to dangerous-animal complaints.
State law and possible charges
Texas law gives authorities options when a dog seriously injures someone. Under chapter 822 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, an owner who fails to properly secure a dog that makes an unprovoked attack causing serious bodily injury can face a felony charge. Courts can also order the seizure or destruction of the dog after a hearing. Prosecutors and animal-control officials typically review medical records and investigators' reports before deciding whether to pursue criminal charges, civil action, or both.
Why this matters
Dog attacks are a long-running public health concern, especially for seniors. A recent national analysis found dog attacks accounted for more than a quarter of animal-related deaths in the U.S. between 2018 and 2023. Researchers also noted an uptick in dog-related fatalities during and after the pandemic period, and a 2025 review highlighted the importance of reporting dangerous animals and investing in prevention efforts.
Investigators are asking anyone who may have information, photos, or video of the Pearsall attack to contact the Pearsall Police Department. Contact information for the department is listed on the City of Pearsall website. Police say any additional details from the public could help clarify how the attack unfolded as the investigation moves forward.
