06/02/2026
Houston recently received some encouraging news: dog attacks on U.S. Postal Service workers dropped from 65 incidents in 2024 to 44 incidents in 2025, according to newly released USPS data. It is the lowest number Houston has seen in years and marks the first time in more than a decade that the city has not ranked among the top two cities nationwide for dog attacks on postal workers.
While no dog attack is acceptable, these numbers suggest that continued investments in public safety, animal welfare, and community education are making a difference.
Every day, BARC's Animal Enforcement Officers respond to calls involving loose animals, bite investigations, dangerous animal complaints, neglect cases, and other concerns that impact both public safety and animal welfare. Their work is supported by shelter staff who care for thousands of animals each year and connect residents with resources to help prevent issues before they escalate.
In 2025, BARC completed 32,713 service calls and improved its call answer rate from 58.95% in 2024 to 63.66% in 2025. During that same period, BARC sheltered 22,445 animals while continuing to expand opportunities for residents seeking assistance with stray animals and pet-related concerns.
"Public safety and animal welfare go hand in hand," said BARC Director Jarrad Mears. "Every responsible pet owner, every resident who reports concerns, and every Animal Enforcement Officer responding to calls plays a role in creating a safer Houston for people and pets alike."
Reducing dog attacks requires a community-wide effort. Keeping pets securely contained, following leash laws, ensuring pets are microchipped and registered, seeking training when needed, and reporting concerns early all contribute to safer neighborhoods.
We are grateful to our Animal Enforcement Officers, shelter staff, volunteers, rescue partners, and community members who work every day to protect both people and pets. Together, these efforts are helping create a safer Houston for everyone.
