Two recent incidents in the Town of New Castle reinforce the need for pet owners to be aware that pets may be viewed by coyotes as easy prey.
On May 18th at about 7:30AM a small dog was attacked by a coyote on Random Farms Drive. The dog owner was walking the dog. The dog ran slightly ahead and the owner lost visual contact around a turn in the path. The owner came around the turn and saw a coyote attacking the dog. When the owner approached the coyote dropped the dog. The dog was treated by a veterinarian for injuries and will survive.
On May 27th at about 7:00AM a 38 pound dog was attacked and killed on Kipp Street by one or more coyotes. The dog was 12 years old and had always used the yard without incident. Homeowners report that they had not seen any coyote activity in the area prior to the attack. Since the incident several coyotes have been observed in the wooded area near the home.
Here are some tips to help keep small pets safe.
-
Pets should not be left outside alone, even when tied to a runner. Small pets need to be supervised with a person close by to help them if they run into trouble.
-
Don't assume a fence is enough protection. It needs to be at least six feet high without chain links that offer a coyote an easy way to climb over. Coyotes can also enter a yard by from under a fence if there is enough space.
-
Coyotes can attack at any time but dawn and dusk are the most dangerous times.
-
Don't assume having your dog on a leash is enough. If you're out walking and see a coyote, pick up your dog.
Reports of aggressive behavior or unusual sightings should be made to the New Castle Police Department at 238-4422. Call 911 in an emergency.
Residents can post individual, non-aggressive sightings online and view a map showing reported sightings for the past 6 months. A link to map is provided below. Questions concerning coyotes in New Castle can be emailed to [email protected]
Coyote Sighting Form and Map:
https://veoci.com/veoci/p/dashboard/ukhpfx
Additional information concerning coyotes in residential areas is available from the NY Department of Environmental Conservation.
