SUMITON, AL — Strange reports of unusual animal behavior are coming out of Walker County residential neighborhoods recently with feral cats chasing home owners and wild packs of dogs stealing prescription medicine.

According to ABC 33/40, the four-legged disturbers of the peace have been running wild for some time now.

“[The stray animals] chased her back to her house and her husband had to come out and stop them,” said resident Carmen James. “It scared me. My husband told me to carry a cane just in case they do come after me.”

Gwen Martin, a local homeowner counts 22 cats and kittens. She was able to get such an accurate count because, well, she feeds them.

“I just can’t stand to see any of them starve,” said Martin.

James, who is undergoing chemotherapy, added that the dogs are increasingly aggressive; one even stole a package of prescription medicines from her porch.

Neighbors have contacted local authorities issuing their complaints but Sumiton Mayor, Petey Ellis, says nothing can really be done about the situation, estimating it would take $100,000 annually to operate a local animal shelter. Since the problem is really for a small percentage of residents, a new city-funded project would be paid by all, but only serve some.

“I can’t say it is fair. But the fact we are not able to deal with it, I mean there is a saying, ‘it is what it is,’” said Ellis.

There is room for stray dogs and cats at the Walker County Humane and Adoption Center, however there is no animal control officer to capture animals and bring them in, a possibly dangerous feat most residents of the community are hesitant to undertake.

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— John James (@john_james_20) August 19, 2015