A Seattle woman is recovering after a harrowing encounter with a coyote that had her dog in its mouth. The incident occurred in her backyard last Friday, highlighting the dangers of wildlife interactions in urban areas.
Key Takeaways
- A woman was bitten by a coyote while trying to rescue her dog.
- The woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a hospital.
- The dog involved in the incident survived without injuries.
- Wildlife officials are urging pet owners to be vigilant and take precautions.
The Incident
Last Friday, a Seattle woman witnessed a coyote in her backyard with her dog in its mouth. In a desperate attempt to save her pet, she intervened, resulting in the coyote biting her on the arm and head. Fortunately, her injuries were non-life-threatening, and she received medical attention shortly after the attack.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) reported that the dog survived the ordeal, but the coyote managed to escape before officers could locate it.
Previous Coyote Encounters
This incident is not isolated. Just a week prior, another coyote attacked a dog in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood. In that case, the dog’s owners successfully scared the coyote away by honking their horns and shining bright lights, prompting the coyote to drop their pet.
Are Coyote Attacks Increasing?
While these incidents raise concerns, experts suggest that coyote attacks on pets are still relatively rare. Robert Long, a Senior Conservation Scientist at Woodland Park Zoo, noted that only about two dozen people in the U.S. are bitten by coyotes each year, compared to millions of dog bites.
Long emphasized the importance of keeping pets supervised and on leashes, especially in areas where coyotes are known to roam. He advised pet owners to act aggressively if they encounter a coyote, suggesting they wave their arms, shout, or throw stones to scare it away.
Safety Tips for Pet Owners
To minimize the risk of coyote encounters, pet owners should consider the following precautions:
- Keep Pets Indoors: Especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
- Use Leashes: Always walk dogs on a leash, particularly in areas with known coyote activity.
- Be Vigilant: Supervise pets when they are outside, even in fenced yards.
- Report Incidents: If you witness a coyote attack, report it to local wildlife authorities.
Conclusion
As urban wildlife interactions become more common, it is crucial for pet owners to remain vigilant and informed. The recent coyote attack serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that exist in our neighborhoods. By taking proactive measures, pet owners can help protect their beloved animals from wildlife threats.
