AHOSKIE – Wild dogs are to blame for the deaths of three pets near here over the past several weeks.

That fact has prompted Hertford County Sheriff Juan Vaughan to ask residents living in the general area of NC 42,Bonner Bridge Roadand the neighborhood behind the Highway Patrol Station to be extremely cautious while outdoors until the problem can be eradicated.

“We’re doing everything possible to take care of the situation, but while we work on this the people in that area need to know that these wild dogs have already killed three domesticated dogs over the past two and a half weeks,”Vaughansaid. “What we do not know at this time is if these wild dogs will attack humans.”

Vaughansaid the pack was first spotted last week along NC 42 nearBonner Bridge Road. It is believed that same pack was responsible for killing a family pet on Friday in the neighborhood behind the Highway Patrol Station.

“My biggest fear is that an innocent child will be victimized by these wild dogs,”Vaughanstated. “Plus we don’t know if this pack is infected with rabies.”

Vaughansaid the pack consists of five dogs – one is white in color with a black/brown face, one is all black, and the other three are black/brown mixed.

“These are full grown dogs,”Vaughansaid. “I would advise dog/cat owners to keep their family pets in a safe place. Do not let them roam away from your property.”

Vaughanasked local citizens to immediately call the Sheriff’s Office (358-7800) or call 9-1-1 if the wild pack is spotted.