Coyote Attacks 2 People, 3 Dogs In Westchester, Suspected To Be Rabid

EASTCHESTER, NY — Coyote sightings aren't usually concerning, but officials say that potentially rabid coyotes in Westchester demand caution.

The Westchester County Department of Health is notifying residents of a suspected rabid coyote in the Eastchester/Bronxville area. Officials say the animal attacked two dogs and three people on Monday, near Siwanoy Country Club and Twin Lakes Park. The Eastchester Police Department believes they have killed the animal.

"To avoid rabies, residents should steer clear of wild animals and strays and teach children never to approach or handle animals they do not know, even if they appear young, injured or friendly," Westchester County Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler said. "Children should be told to report any bite or scratch immediately. It is also important to keep pets' rabies vaccinations up to date and take steps to discourage wild animals from visiting your yard."

The Eastchester Police Department said it received numerous calls on Monday of coyote sightings and aggressive behavior, in the California Ridge neighborhood. Several of those incidents involved coyotes approaching and attacking dogs either on the street or in a residential backyard.

Police say that in this case, the coyotes are believed to have dens on private property as well within the Twin Lakes County Park. They have contacted and are working closely with the NYS DEC Police.

Residents in the area of California Ridge and Bronxville Manor should take extra precautions when walking their dogs and should not leave pets unattended in their yards. Young children should not be left attended outside.

"Coyote sightings are normal this time of year," the Bronxville Police Department said in an alert sent on Monday. "Sightings of a coyote that is not aggressive or hostile do not need to be reported. Coyotes that are being aggressive or attack an animal or person should be reported and in emergency call 911."

County health officials say that anyone who has been bitten or scratched by an animal should seek medical attention immediately. All animal bites or contact with animals suspected of having rabies must be reported to the Westchester County Department of Health at (914) 813-5000, available 24 hours a day. Anyone who may have had any contact with a wild or stray animal is also advised to notify their health care provider and contact the Health Department right away for guidance.

Amler advised residents to bat-proof their homes, keep trash cans tightly sealed, and avoid leaving pet food or water outside, which can attract wildlife.

Unusual behavior may be the first sign of rabies in an animal. A rabid animal may become either abnormally aggressive or unusually tame. It may lose fear of people and become excited and irritable, or appear particularly passive and lethargic. Staggering and frothing at the mouth are sometimes noted.

Residents should never approach or have contact with a stray or wild animal. Anyone who sees a stray or wild animal acting strangely should alert local authorities immediately to avoid possible exposure to rabies.

Keeping pet rabies vaccinations up to date is also important for protection against rabies, according to health officials. New York State law requires dogs, cats and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies and receive regular booster shots.

More information can be found here or by calling the Rabies Infoline at 914-813-5010.