Canton Family's Dog Killed in Latest of Coyote Attacks on Pets

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CANTON, MI – A Canton family’s dog is dead after an attack by a coyote Friday morning, police said.

The dog, a bichon frise, was attacked by the coyote shortly after 5 a.m. when the owner let it and another dog out, according to a news release from the Canton Department of Public Safety.

The other dog, also a bichon frise, was not injured.

Police said coyote sightings are on an uptick across Metro Detroit in recent years as the animals migrate into urban and suburban areas across the state. Similar attacks on family dogs were reported in Grosse Ile and and Shelby Township.

Coyotes are most likely to be spotted during their breeding period, which occurs from mid-January into March, and are active both day and night, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Activity usually peaks at sunrise and sunset.

The DNR said coyotes can be difficult to distinguish from a medium-sized German shepherd dog from a distance. The size and weight of coyotes are commonly overestimated because of their long fur masking a bone structure that is slightly smaller than most domestic dogs. When running, coyotes carry their tail below the level of their backs.

In urban areas coyotes are attracted to garbage, garden vegetables and optional pet foods. Coyotes are opportunistic, and will prey on unattended small dogs and cats. However, because coyotes are known to have an instinctive fear of people, coyotes rarely attack humans.

• To assist in minimizing a potential conflict with a coyote:
• Never approach or touch a coyote.
• Never intentionally feed a coyote.
• Eliminate all outside food sources, especially pet food.
• Put garbage out the morning of pick-up.
• Clear out wood and brush piles; they are a habitat for mice and may attract coyotes.
• Do not allow pets to roam free when coyotes are present—consider keeping pets indoors or
• accompany them outside, especially from dusk until dawn.

Because humans share habitat with wild animals, sighting of a coyote is an automatic cause for concern, police said.

“If residents feel they are in danger of a coyote, or if they observe a coyote in obvious distress, they should contact the police department,” Special Services Lt. Craig Wilsher said. “Otherwise, residents are encouraged to follow the tips provided to minimize interaction with wildlife.”

Reports of a coyote in distress or causing a threat can be called in to Public Safety’s non-emergency line at (734) 394-5400. Emergency situations should always be called in through 9-1-1.

Residents with nuisance wildlife issues are advised to contact Varmit Police at (734) 729-0858 or at www.varmintpolice.com. Varmint Police is a private wildlife management company servicing Western-Wayne County.

» Photo via Wikimedia / Creative Commons