HOUSTON — A postal worker was bit by a dog this week while he was delivering mail in a neighborhood off Airline and West Gulf Bank.
Residents in the neighborhood weren't surprised and said loose dogs are a constant problem.
The United States Postal Service worker said it was not the first time he had been bit.
But this time was worse than any before.
Isaias Villareal wants dog owners and animal control to take action.
Villareal, 27, loves his job. It runs in his blood.
"It’s a physical job. I get daily exercise. I get paid to walk. I enjoy the nature and weather. Rain or shine, I am ready to work," he said.
His father was also a postal worker.
"He guided me to here to keep his legacy going and become a mail carrier and continue on this journey," Villareal said.
Villareal said the latest dog attack has taken the joy away from his job. He said he was delivering mail along Colendale Drive when he saw a barking dog chasing after him.
He said he pulled out his pepper spray when the pitbull attacked.
"Sprayed him multiple times ... he paused for a few seconds," Villareal said.
But, he said, the dog came back with a vengeance and latched onto his leg.
Villareal said a homeowner came out to help and then an ambulance showed up to take him to the hospital.
Residents said they're not surprised and they walk around with sticks because of the aggressive dogs roaming the streets. One neighbor said a female mail carrier was bitten a few years ago.
Villareal had a message for other dog owners. He wanted them to be more aware of the dangers that mail carriers face every day.
"Owners need to be more conscious of allowing their dogs in the yard. You never know when a mail carrier is delivering your mail," he said.
Harris County Animal Control didn't respond when KHOU 11 News reached out.