Dog Survives Coyote Attack, Thanks to Bystanders

A poodle has survived a coyote attack in Calabasas, thanks to bystanders who came to its aid.

The dog was being carried in a coyote's mouth at about 5 a.m. on Aug. 28 in the 3700 block of Camino Codorniz, according to a press release from the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control.

A couple driving by saw what was going on, got out of their car and scared the coyote, which eventually dropped the dog and ran away, the release said.

The dog, named Maddy, was taken to a local emergency pet hospital, where it was treated for serious, but non-life-threatening injuries, according to the statement.

Maddy was being watched by a Calabasas family while her owners, Haskel and Brenda Joseph of La Costa, were out of town. The housekeeper had placed the poodle in the backyard and left it there, according to the statement.

"The incident not only exemplifies the importance of keeping pets indoors and out of harm's way, it also demonstrates the natural fear coyotes should have of humans," said Marcia Mayeda, director of the Department of Animal Care and Control, in the release. "The quick thinking of the passers-by made all the difference in this case.

"Maddy is one lucky little dog," Mayeda said.

After being treated, Maddy was taken to the Agoura Hills Animal Shelter, where she was later reunited with her owners.

"When the Josephs arrived to pick her up, Maddy cried when she saw them and cuddled in their arms," said Denise Rosen, the shelter's manager. "It was so sweet."

About three to five pets a week are brought to Animal Urgent Care hospital in Orange County, according to a staff report prepared by the city of Calabasas for its recent presentation of a new coyote management plan.

The plan aims to educate citizens about coyotes to help reduce the number of pet-related coyote attacks. to read more about the plan.