Since this is coyote breeding season, the chance for conflict between your dog and this predator increases. Coyotes are a year round problem, however they become more territorial and aggressive during mating season. Coyotes seek mates and breed from January through March making them more prominent and aggressive. It is discouraged to allow pets to roam, especially at night. Accompany them outside if they need to go to the bathroom; for greater protection, bring them out on a leash.
Coyotes' fearless nature will not allow an opportunity to attack pass. To protect your dog during this year's coyote breeding season, do not leave dogs outdoors alone or leave their food or garbage outside. If there are vegetables or fruit from the past summer that has fallen or rotted in the garden, remove these food sources as well. Do not give coyotes any greater temptation to enter an area where dogs have access. Ideally, it's advantageous to walk dogs on a leash even while in the backyard, during this season where heightened awareness is necessary.
Coyotes can jump fences; they have no respect for boundaries or human territory. They search for food, water and shelter.
It was reported in 2012, 14 dogs were taken by coyotes and 12 dogs were injured in Lakewood alone, according to the city's animal control unit.
When encountering a coyote, do not turn your back or run away from it. Yell loudly, wave your arms, clap your hands and when possible throw things at it to encourage it to move away from you. If possible, the use of hazing tools such as whistles, horns, rocks, water guns filled with vinegar, etc. are effective. Pick up any small pets and if the coyote does not leave the area, back away slowly while still facing the coyote.
Cities throughout the metro area try and minimize problems with coyotes, but there aren't effective methods of coyote control. Some coyotes are relocated and some are controlled by lethal actions but after removing a single coyote, another coyote simply moves into their territory. Coyotes and other wildlife fall under jurisdiction of the Colorado Division of Wildlife. For additional information on keep your pets safe from coyotes, visit the Division of Wildlife's website or review the brochure Your Pets and Coyotes. If you have an emergency situation involving coyotes, contact the nearest Colorado Parks and Wildlife office, Monday-Friday, during regular business hours. Outside normal business hours, contact the Colorado State Patrol or your county's sheriff's office
Where ever there is a place for them to find shelter, food and water resources, there is the probability that coyotes will try and occupy this space. Smaller breed dogs stand little chance against a coyote attack so it's up to owners to be vigilant and protect dogs especially during breeding season.
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