Residents of Henderson City, Nevada, are on high alert following two separate encounters between dogs and coyotes captured by home security cameras in the area.
In an attempt to alleviate concerns among neighbors, KVVU-TV sought advice from the Nevada Department of Wildlife on safeguarding pets against coyotes.
The first recorded incident occurred late last week when a coyote was observed entering a backyard and encountering two small dogs. Initially, the coyote appeared to retreat by jumping onto a fence. However, it later reentered the yard and attacked one of the dogs. Fortunately, the injured dog received veterinary treatment and is now recovering.
In a separate incident days earlier, surveillance footage from a nearby neighborhood showed two large coyotes spending an hour observing two pups in a backyard. Thankfully, the presence of a fence ensured the safety of the dogs.
Doug Nielsen from the Nevada Department of Wildlife explained that coyotes typically avoid confrontation unless provoked. While not all interactions result in attacks on domestic pets, some do occur, Nielsen noted.
The attraction of coyotes to residential areas can be attributed, in part, to the comfort provided by backyards. Nielsen mentioned that factors such as shade, water sources, and scents from pet food and droppings contribute to this attraction.
To discourage coyotes from frequenting neighborhoods, Nielsen suggested making noise, such as honking horns, when spotting the animals.
The recent sightings have raised concerns among pet owners regarding the safety of allowing dogs outside unattended. Nielsen advised considering the size of the dog, stating that larger dogs are less likely to be targeted by coyotes. He emphasized that smaller dogs are at a higher risk of being attacked or carried away by coyotes.
Wildlife officials also cautioned pet owners about the vulnerability of cats wandering in areas frequented by coyotes.
