Family's Dog Killed In River Forest Coyote Attack

RIVER FOREST, IL — Officials are warning pet owners to be on the alert after a beloved family dog was killed in a coyote attack earlier this month in suburban River Forest.

Daisy, a 9-year-old cavalier King Charles spaniel, was attacked March 10 after her owner let her out into the backyard.

Veterinarian Dr. Kathleen Heneghan of Elmwood-Grove Animal Hospital said Daisy's owners did not witness the attack.

"We got the call at 5:30 p.m., they had just found her in the yard," Heneghan told NBC Chicago. "They didn't see the attack, they let her out to go potty just like they always have."

The animal hospital posted a warning on Facebook, sharing a puppy photo from Daisy's first vet visit and saying the pooch was a "nine-year-old sweetheart."

RELATED: Woman's Dog Attacked by 2 Coyotes in Riverside: Police

"Attacked & killed in her River Forest backyard just last night, our patient Daisy was gone instantly. Her family is devastated," the hospital said, noting coyotes have been spotted roaming in Chicagoland recently. "Daisy weighed 18 pounds. These predators aren't just going after tiny creatures anymore."

The Village of River Forest also issued a warning: "Residents are cautioned that coyotes are generally not dangerous to humans, but they are can be territorial when protecting their young, and should not be approached. Small pets may be considered prey by coyotes, please do not leave your pets outside unsupervised."

The village offered tips for protecting people and pets:

• Never feed coyotes — feeding lures coyotes into neighborhoods.
• Do not leave small pets unattended outside, even in a fenced-in yard.
• Keep dogs on a short leash while walking outside.
• Yell, clap hands or blow a whistle and try to make yourself look larger if a coyote approaches.
• Do not allow a coyote to get in between you and your pet or child.

Last month, two "aggressive" coyotes were relocated from a park on the North Side of Chicago after residents complained "they were being harassed, followed and menaced" by the animals.

Image via Patch file