Ever run into a Coyote or other wild animal?

After doing a little research, we learned that Coyotes are afraid of people.  Generally speaking, they'll stay away.  But, if they don't here are some tips to protect you and your dog:

Around the House:

• A fenced in yard is a great defense against unwanted friends like Coyotes, Fischer Cats, and Bobcats.  Check for breaks in the fence line where they could sneak through. 
• Keep all trash in secured containers away from where your pet goes potty or plays.  This will help deter Skunks, Raccoons, and other mean critters that feed on our trash cans from stopping by.
• Add in lights.  We added in two motion detector lights outside so we can see the whole yard at night.  Lowe's has a really great Solar Light.  It's easy to install and doesn't need any electricity. 

Good Safety Tips:

• Using a leash for potty trips at dawn and dusk will help keep your pet close by. The close your pet is to you, the greater your chances are of keeping them safe.  With Copley, I can scoop her up into my arms if needed.  Having her on a leash would make that happen quickly!
• Walk in well lit, well trafficked areas at day break or sunset.  The more active life, the less likely a Coyote is to be hanging around. 
• Visit dog parks or other community places in months when it gets dark early.  This will help your dog get the exercise they need with no stress for you!
• Don't feed the animals - Coyotes and other animals become more comfortable with humans if we become a food source.  Never, never feed the wildlife.

What to do if you run into a Coyote:
If they don't notice you.  Move away as quickly and quietly as possible.

• Make yourself look as big as possible.  Stand tall and confident.
• Make lots of loud noise - bang things together and shout.
• Back away while maintaining an eye on the Coyote - never turn your back, run, or make sudden movements.
• And, if the Coyote does decide to attack - fight back.

The Coyotes are Back

It's official.  The Coyotes are back. 

Back in May, when we moved to Dedham, all of our friends said..."you live down the Manor? Watch out for the Coyotes - they are known to attack dogs."  Excellent.  For the past few months, I dismissed people's comments about both living in the Manor and the Coyotes.  We hadn't heard from them or seen evidence of them...until last week. 

Around midnight, I heard that distinct Coyote howl-at-the moon sound.  He was so close that I actually heard him walk down the dirt road next to my house/bedroom.   Two nights ago, just after bringing Copley in from our last potty of the night, a pack of Coyotes took something out.  Their screams followed by the evilest cackle seemed to suspend time.  And, Copley wasn't so quiet this time.  She barked and growled with all her might - the hair on the back of her spine stood straight up. 

When living in Arizona, we occasionally ran into some "friends": Coyote and a Bobcat.  But, around here there are many more trees, shrubs, and piles of leaves to hide behind!  I've become afraid of the dark.

Have you ever been near any wild animals with your dog?  Share here.