A pack of stray dogs that appeared on the streets of Godley, north Texas, a few months ago is growing in number and becoming more aggressive, NBC News reported on 14/9. Residents warn the animals have become familiar with the streets, roaming together not only at night but also during the day. The pack has grown to 40 dogs, raising safety concerns.

"We were getting the kids out of the car and started hearing barking, then I saw multiple dogs coming towards the house. My wife rushed our daughter inside, my son locked the car doors, and I ran inside to get my gun," said local resident Bruce Moats.

Stray dogs roam the streets of Godley, Johnson County, Texas. Photo: NBC News

Stray dogs roam the streets of Godley, Johnson County, Texas. Photo: NBC News

While hoping he'll never have to fire his weapon at the dogs, Moats said he's prepared to do so if necessary.

"We're dealing with wild dogs that are obviously sick, hungry, and roaming the streets. They're going to look for food, and I don't want my children to be their next meal," he said.

Godley residents are unsure where the dogs came from, but like Moats, many have expressed safety concerns, as several dogs in the pack appear sick and malnourished.

Johnson County official Rick Bailey said animal abandonment is a growing problem in the area, but stated the county lacks the legal authority to capture the dogs.

Stray dogs appear at night on the streets of Godley, Texas. Photo: NBC News

Stray dogs appear at night on the streets of Godley, Texas. Photo: NBC News

Even if the dogs were captured, animal shelters in the county are at capacity, leaving no place to house them.

"This is a major concern. But I don't have a solution or an answer other than to talk to other cities in the county to see what can be done to mitigate this problem," Bailey said.

The Godley City Council is considering a proposal to implement new penalties for those who abandon animals.