Are your pets safe?
Lately we have seen an alarming increase in attacks on pets by coyotes. Coyotes have become prevalent throughout the United States. Even clients living in some of the nicest neighborhoods have had encounters with these opportunistic predators.
Cats that go outdoors are at high risk for becoming a meal for hungry coyotes. Coyotes are especially active from dusk to dawn but may show up at any time. Recently one of our clients was standing in their front yard when a coyote appeared, grabbed their cat and began to shake it. Thankfully when she screamed, the coyote dropped the cat allowing it to escape. If the client had not been standing there, the coyote would have had a meal and a beloved pet would have been lost. Every time I see a “lost cat” poster, I feel sad knowing that they will likely never see their cat again. Generally, we feel like cats should stay indoors. There are too many risks for injury when they go out, not to mention fleas, parasites, and infectious diseases.
It appears that coyotes are losing some of their natural fear of people and will come very close if they think they can get something to eat. One of our clients had her small dog taken by a coyote right at at her feet. Fenced backyards are not completely safe. One of our patients was attacked in their own backyard surrounded by a six foot fence. Luckily the coyote dropped the small dog when our client screamed. You should stay with your small dogs when they’re outside, especially at night.
In addition to this threat, coyotes are also known as a source of disease. Rabies, Heartworms, intestinal worms, Leptospirosis and Distemper are just a few of the diseases they can transmit.
What can be done?
1. Consider carrying an air horn or “bear spray” to fend off a possible coyote attack when you are outside with your pet.
2. Keep your pets up to date on vaccination. Dogs are especially at risk since they do go outside and coyotes are so similar in their physiology and the diseases they carry.
3. Keep your pet on a broad spectrum parasite prevention. Revolution and Trifexis for dogs and Revolution for cats provide the best coverage for internal and external parasites.
Please call us at (949) 464-1000 if you have any other questions, concerns or suggestions on keeping our pets safe from this prevalent threat.Share on Facebook