A quiet stretch of Alvarado is on edge after someone shot and killed a family’s dog inside their fenced backyard late last month, a loss relatives say has ripped a hole in the household. The longtime pet was more than just an animal, family members told local reporters, and they say they will not rest until the shooter is identified and held responsible.
According to a report from FOX 4 Dallas‑Fort Worth, the station aired a short video segment today that includes on‑camera interviews with the family and photos from the scene. The shooting itself happened in February, the outlet reported. So far, the broadcast does not name a suspect or indicate that any arrests have been made.
What the law allows in Texas
Texas law carves out a narrow defense for killing a dog that is attacking livestock or other domestic animals. In those specific situations, state code says the person who kills the animal may not be civilly liable. The Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 822 spells out that exception along with other animal‑control rules. Outside those limited circumstances, intentionally killing a companion animal can lead to criminal or civil consequences, depending on what happened and on local ordinances.
How to help
The family is asking neighbors and anyone who might have security footage or information to step up and help identify whoever pulled the trigger. The Johnson County Sheriff's Office lists a 24/7 dispatch number on its website. Its nonemergency dispatch line is (817) 556‑6045, and the main office line is (817) 556‑6058.
Neighbors say the shooting has rattled the small Johnson County community and left people uneasy in their own yards. The family says it plans to keep pressing for answers as investigators follow leads. For now, the killing remains a painful open question for the household, and anyone with information is urged to contact local authorities.
