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Coyote season is ramping up—here’s how to protect your pets.
Step aside, “Florida Man.” Last week, a South Carolina man wrestled a coyote away from his fun-size pet chihuahua (read: He grabbed the coyote by the tail and deposited it in the trash can before Animal Control rolled up—yes, really…).
But those wild canines aren’t only prevalent in SC. The Nextdoor network in many Raleigh neighborhoods has spotted rogue coyotes hanging in residential areas, which tracks with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission’s data detailing now as the time of year coyote sightings increase due to the start of mating period.
Translation: It’s coyote season.
As the probability of spotting the animals in your backyard increases, the question of keeping Fido safe emerges—especially because most of us prefer not to physically wrestle a coyote away from our pint-size pooch. Enter the coyote-proof vest (a la Shark Tank), which not only makes your dog look more intimidating in the eyes of a potential predator, but also features stab-resistant material and shiny spikes along the back to prevent more life-threatening injuries in the case of a coyote attack.
According to experts, the hustle and bustle of city life doesn’t deter coyotes either. “In general, no matter where you are in North Carolina, there are probably coyotes in the area, even if you never see one,” says Extension Wildlife Biologist Falyn Owens of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission Wildlife Management Division. Which begs the question: What do you do if you spot one?
The animals’ have a healthy fear of humans, so be sure to play into that by standing tall and “hazing” the coyote by waving your arms, yelling and even throwing small objects in its direction. And whatever you do, do not run lest you want to become coyote cuisine…
With that said, these tactics might not be as effective during the spring (think April to May), when coyotes are raising their pups and seeking out food for their offspring.
“Thankfully, coyotes tend to raise their young away from areas frequented by people,” explains Owens. “In urban and suburban areas, that could mean an abandoned urban lot or a wooded creek between houses.” Note: A coyote protecting its young might get downright territorial and display behaviors like vocalizing or watching you from a distance.
“If they see a coyote that appears to ‘hold its ground’ rather than running away, it may be defending a nearby den or pups. In situations like this, simply leave the area,” the wildlife biologist advises.
As for “coyote-proof” vests, Owens is skeptical that a coyote, given enough time, couldn’t figure out how to carry off a small pet wearing the gear advertised as predator-proof.
“Personally, I would never rely on one of these products as a substitute for the excellent protection an owner provides simply by being physically near their small pet,” she says. “The best way to protect small, vulnerable pets from outside dangers is by keeping them close. We are the best protection they have from any number of hazards outdoors.” In short, it seems like the best way to protect your small pooch is via helicopter pet parenting.
Photo courtesy of CoyoteVest™
Lessen the likelihood of a coyote fiesta occurring in your yard via these pro tips:
- Avoid setting out a buffet by securing garbage and not feeding pets outside.
- Keep small pets safe, leashed and attended—especially in unfenced or low-fence yards.
One next-level strategy is a coyote-proof fence that is at least 6 feet tall and topped with an outward extension or a “coyote roller.”
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