
We wanted to send out this important reminder after a recent incident in the Highlands of Waltham, MA on 1/22/25 when a woman’s dog was attacked by five coyotes in her yard. The poor dog suffered multiple wounds, but thankfully her son was in the yard, and his quick action in chasing the coyotes away saved the dog’s life.
This serves as a critical reminder to never leave dogs unattended in yards, no matter how safe it may seem.
Coyote mating season is upon us, and it’s important to stay extra cautious to keep your pets safe. Coyotes are more active and much more bold during this time of year, and knowing how to handle an encounter can make all the difference. We actually have quite a few in the Waltham area that seem to hang out and hunt in groups! Here’s everything you need to know to protect your furry family members.
A Personal Encounter
A few years ago, I experienced firsthand how bold coyotes can be. While walking my 40-pound whippet/lab mix around 4:30 PM, I noticed a coyote paralleling us, walking alongside at a distance for about a quarter of a mile. It was unnerving, but I knew that running could trigger a prey response, so I stayed calm and avoided sudden movements. I made sure to position myself between my dog and the coyote to maintain as much distance as possible and show that I was in control. Thankfully, the coyote didn’t make any aggressive moves, and we made it home safely.
Once I was home, I allowed myself to process the fear and anxiety of the situation, but in the moment, remaining calm and focused was crucial. This experience reinforced for me how important it is to be prepared and aware during walks, especially during coyote mating season.
Why Coyotes Are More Active
During mating season, which typically occurs between January and March, coyotes are more likely to be seen roaming neighborhoods in search of food and mates. This increased activity means there’s a greater chance of crossing paths with one during your daily walks or even in your yard.
General Safety Tips
Never Leave Pets Unattended: Whether you’re at home or in a public space, never leave pets alone outside. Even in a fenced yard, a determined coyote may find a way in. They have been known to ever climb fences to get at pets!
Keep Dogs on a Leash: Always use a sturdy leash no longer than 6 feet. Retractable leashes can make it harder to maintain control if a coyote appears.
Supervise Outdoor Time: Always stay outside with them and be vigilant and keep them within sight.
Secure Food and Trash: Coyotes are opportunistic and will approach areas where food is available. Keep trash sealed, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and clean up fallen fruit from trees.
What to Do If You Encounter a Coyote
If you encounter a coyote while walking your dog, follow these steps to keep yourself and your pet safe:
Stay Calm: Avoid panicking or running, as this could trigger a chase.
Take Control of Your Pet: Pick up smaller pets if possible. For larger dogs, maintain a firm grip on the leash and keep them close. Try to get in between your dog and the coyote.
Use Hazing Techniques: Hazing is an effective way to teach coyotes to stay away from humans and pets. Here are some hazing strategies:
Make Yourself Big: Stand tall, wave your arms, and shout in a loud, firm voice to intimidate the coyote.
Use Noisemakers: Carry a whistle, air horn, or even a can filled with coins to create loud noises that will scare the coyote away.
Throw Objects: Toss small objects like sticks or rocks near (not at) the coyote to encourage it to leave.
Use Water: A spray bottle or water gun filled with vinegar water can act as a safe deterrent if the coyote gets too close.
How to Prevent Coyotes From Coming Near Your Home
Install Fencing: Ensure your yard is surrounded by a fence at least 6 feet tall with no gaps. Adding a coyote roller to the top of your fence can further deter them from climbing.
Remove Attractants: Clear out potential hiding spots like overgrown shrubs and secure any food sources like trash bins or bird feeders.
Light Up Your Yard: Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can discourage coyotes from venturing onto your property.
Important Reminder
Coyotes are a natural part of our environment, but it’s essential to take precautions to keep your pets safe. By supervising outdoor time, staying alert during walks, and using hazing techniques when needed, you can significantly reduce the risk of an encounter turning dangerous.
For more information on coyote safety, check out this helpful guide from the Humane Society: Coyote Hazing.
Stay safe and vigilant, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us to your local animal control officer if you have any questions or concerns.
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