Small Dog Killed By Coyote In Fairfax County: Police

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA—Fairfax County Police are warning residents about coyote attacks after a small dog was killed in the Parklawn neighborhood of Lincolnia.

The dog, a Jack Russell terrier, had been retrieving a toy on May 5 when it ran into the woods and the coyote attacked, NBC Washington reports. Police say confrontations with coyotes and dogs can happen anytime but are more likely during mating season from January to March and when coyotes are caring for their young from March to August. Dogs left alone are more susceptible to these confrontations.

Generally people don't have much to worry about if they know what to do in a confrontation. Unprovoked attacks from coyotes are rare. Police say residents should not be alarmed by the presence of coyotes, as they are a regular part of the wildlife.

Here are some tips to minimize confrontations and conflicts with coyotes:

• Never feed a coyote.
• Keep garbage in an animal-proof container, such as a metal trash can with latches on the lid or secure with bungee cords.
• Keep trash inside until the morning of trash pick-up when possible.
• Do not feed pets outside or store pet food outside.
• Do not leave your pet unattended, even in a fenced yard.
• Keep cats indoors.
• Pick up ripe, fallen fruit and do not let it accumulate on the ground.
• Keep dogs on short leashes (less than 6 feet) while walking outside.
• Install motion sensor lights or a motion activated sprinkler around your home.
• Close up openings under porches/decks, crawl spaces or out-buildings where animals might make dens.
• Be alert at dusk and dawn. Coyotes are most active at night and early morning hours; however, they may be active during the day in search of food or dens.
• Install fencing at least six feet tall to keep coyotes out of yards.

Fairfax County Police's Animal Services Division are monitoring coyote activity using area searches and game cameras. Personnel are coordinating these efforts with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries to determine if additional actions need to be taken. If you see a aggressive, sick or injured animal, call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131 and ask to be connected with Fairfax County Animal Control Services.

Image not of actual coyote, via Fairfax County Police