Dogs, especially small dogs are vulnerable to predator attacks, coyote, hawks, owls, bobcats… These incidents generally involve coyotes who are accustomed or habituated to people usually due to wildlife feeding, or coyotes who are protecting their territory and pups during breeding season. Coyotes are smart and they will learn the schedule of your dogs outdoor routine. If your dog goes out every morning and every night around the same time, a coyote will lay in wait and will grab your dog in a split second.

Dogs (especially small dogs) should not be left outside unattended…EVER. Not even for 5 minutes to go outside to the bathroom, go outside with them.

The Eastern Coyote is large enough to take down a deer – that makes your toy poodle barely even a challenge. Although “attacks” on larger dogs are rarer, coyotes will sometimes go after a large dog when they feel that their territory is threatened. This generally occurs during the coyote breeding season, which takes place from January through March. During this time, it is especially important not to let dogs outside unattended and to keep them on leashes when in public areas. Fencing can be used to keep coyotes out of residential yards, but it must be at least six feet tall and should extend underground at least six inches. Invisible fencing will NOT keep your pets safe from predator attacks. Coyotes are not limited to rural areas, they are in urban areas and cities as well.

We are sharing space with wildlife and we need to respect them. Please be vigilant and responsible and do not leave your dog (or cat) outside unattended!

Author: mkmcst

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