Police Issue Alert After Dog Attacked By Coyote In Westchester

MOUNT VERNON, NY — The Mount Vernon Police Department warned residents Thursday evening that a small dog was attacked by what was reported to be a coyote.

The wild animal attack occurred near North Columbus Ave. and California Rd.

The police department asked residents to remember that we share our environment with wild animals and while it is rare for them to show up in Mount Vernon, they do appear occasionally.

Just on Wednesday, the Pelham Manor Police Department issued its own coyote advisory about coyote sightings in both the north and south ends of the village. It is unclear if it is the same coyote that attacked the dog in Mount Vernon.

While coyote attacks are rare in Westchester County, a coyote that later tested positive for rabies attacked several people in Hastings and Yonkers in 2018.

There are a few common sense precautions suggested by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to make sure man and beast are able to coexist peacefully.

Homeowners are warned to not approach the wild animals in any situation and to never feed a coyote. Potential food sources, such as bird feeders, pet food stored outdoors and refuse containers, should be secured so as not to attract unwelcome visitors.

Pet owners should not allow their furry friends to run free and parents are asked to closely supervise children outdoors.

In the unlikely event someone is approached by a coyote, they should not run away. Instead, it is recommended to be aggressive — this includes making loud noises, waving one's arms and throwing sticks and stones. Officials say these behaviors will almost always scare the animals away.

If a coyote attack to any person or animal is imminent, contact the Mount Vernon Police Department at 914-665-2500. If you see a coyote that is acting "bold" or appears to not fear people, you can also contact the DEC at 845-256-3098 or 845-256-3013.

SEE ALSO:

• Yonkers PD Tells Neighbors To Expect Increased Coyote Activity
• "Beware Of Coyotes!" Town of Bedford Issues Alert To Residents
• Pelham Manor Police Issue Coyote Advisory