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As wildlife continues to be pushed out of their homes thanks to urbanization, those wildlife must find new homes and new food sources. Unfortunately, one of the worst predators that's finding their new home on the streets of neighborhoods is coyotes. Almost everyone has seen a scraggly little creature wandering down the street or peeking over the top of a small hill that backs up to a home. Just like other creatures on this earth, coyotes need to eat and their food of choice are small animals. As they have an opportunistic diet, this means cats, small dogs, rabbits, rats, etc. If you've never had a half eaten cat left on your front porch, you can't understand how detrimental a coyote epidemic can be. Let's go over some ways to keep your pets safe!
1. Keep cats indoors
Stray and outdoor cats are a coyotes favorite fast food snack. They are one of the most frequent victims to coyotes' hunger. Simple solution: keep cats indoors if you live in coyote territory or if anything, bring them in at nighttime. If you feed stray/feral cats, be sure to take these steps to keep them safe, as well:
"Feed cats only during the day and at a set time—and pick up any leftovers immediately
Provide escape routes for cats
In treeless or open areas, erect "cat posts"—long pieces of wood (four inches by four inches or corner posts) that stand out of the ground at least ten to twelve feet. These can be climbed by cats but not by coyotes
Elevate feeding stations beyond coyotes’—but not the cats’—reach
Discourage/harass coyotes seen on the property. Go after them aggressively, using the techniques described in our coyote hazing guidelines. Making them feel uncomfortable will encourage them to stay out of the area." (Courtesy of The Humane Society)
2. Coyote rollers
If you've never heard of coyote rollers, then you're missing out if you live in a high coyote population area. They are basically long rods that are placed on the top of fences and walls to when a coyote tries to jump over, they fall back down. Unless the coyote is the next American Ninja Warrior, they won't be getting over your fence with these. They are also extremely effective at keeping escape artist dogs and cats inside your yard!
See below in this photo how a coyote roller works:
3. Punk Rock Vest
Not only is your small dog going to be more protected against coyotes, they're going to look FABULOUS while they're at it! These innovative vests feature numerous spikes on the back to prevent a coyote from grabbing a small dog whether on leash on in your backyard. This ALSO protects from other large dogs and predators! Ge yours at coyotevest.com!
4. Watch small dogs outside
Just like cats, small dogs can be scooped up in a blink of an eye by a coyote that decides to scale your fence. NEVER leave them outside on their own, especially at night when coyotes prefer to hunt. But desperate coyotes will still hunt in the daytime, as well.
5. Protection on walks
Make sure to carry protection for both yourself and your dog on walks, especially at night. And if you thin you can just outrun them, think again because coyotes can run up to 40 MPH! Keep animal deterrent on you along with a taser if possible as even just the sound can scare coyotes away.
It's important to keep in mind that coyotes are a crucial part of our ecosystem so please don't kill or harm a coyote UNLESS it's to save your animal or someone else's or save another person.
Do you have a surefire way to protect your pets from coyotes?! Let us know!
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