Bobcat Attacks Dog in Chelmsford

Chelmsford, like many neighboring towns, is seeing its share of bobcats in the area. But after a neighborhood dog was attacked, some residents want them relocated.

The Miller family of North Chelmsford told WHDH, 7-News a bobcat attacked their dog and the vet bills are climbing into the thousands. The dog is recovering from his injuries, and the family is glad he survived. Now the Millers and others want the bobcats removed.

Neighbors told the news station there’s a family of four bobcats they’ve been seeing for weeks. But relocating them is unlikely to happen. State guidelines don’t allow for wild animals to be removed or relocated.

Bobcats have been seen all over the area, including in neighboring Westford and Bedford, as well as in the Wilmington area where a resident has set up a trail cam 200 feet into the woods behind his house capturing all sorts of wildlife living in that community.

According to Mass Wildlife, adult bobcats weigh between 15 and 35 pounds and measure 28 to 47 inches in length. Male bobcats are about 33 percent larger than the female bobcats.

And while bobcats don’t attack people, you do need to keep your pets safe. Here are some tips for pet owners this goes for all sorts of wildlife including bobcats and coyotes which have been spotted throughout the area:

• Always walk your dog on a leash
• Don’t attract predators to your yard – clean up brushy areas or woodpiles, and remove any food sources.
• Don’t allow cats to roam free outdoors.
• Never encourage or allow your pet to interact or “play” with wildlife.
• Make sure your fence is in good repair.
• Do not leave pets unattended outdoors.
• Remove food sources, i.e. fallen fruit, food refuse, pet food.