A 5-year-old miniature schnauzer named Blaze was fatally attacked by a coyote near Tanner Park last week, Salt Lake County officials announced.
The pet dog had apparently wandered away from his owners’ home through an open gate before the attack early June 15, according to a news release from Salt Lake County Animal Services.
The nearby Tanner Dog Park features a large off-leash area that is popular among dog owners in Salt Lake City.
Blaze’s owners want residents in the area to be aware of recent coyote sightings, the release states.
Salt Lake County Animal Services provided several tips on how people can avoid encounters and conflicts with coyotes.
Preventing encounters
Don’t feed coyotes, and get rid of things that could attract them to your property, such as pet food, water sources, bird feeders, and fallen fruit, officials advised.
Store trash inside ahead of trash pickup, if possible, and make sure it’s stored within a locked receptacle if left outside.
Motion-activated lights can also deter coyotes, and trimming trees and shrubs in your yard can cut back on coyote hiding spots, the release states.
Preventing conflict with pets
Coyotes can perceive smaller pets as potential prey, while larger dogs might be viewed as threats or competitors, officials said.
“Coyotes have taken pets in backyards, open areas, and right off a leash,” the release states.
To minimize risk, don’t leave dogs outside after dark, and keep cats indoors. Dogs should be leashed in open areas such as trails, and they should never be allowed to chase or “play” with coyotes.
Other pets, such as chickens, rabbits and goats, should be kept in a kennel, barn or shed at night.
Encountering a coyote
If you spot a coyote in your yard, try to create an “unwelcome” environment, the release states. That could involve yelling, throwing rocks, banging pots and pans or activating sprinklers.
If you encounter a coyote on a hike or at a park, pick up small pets and try to do the same — make loud noises, wave your arms or stomp your feet in an effort to frighten it, and back away slowly, officials advised.
“Do not run or turn your back on a coyote that has approached you,” the release states.
If you encounter an aggressive coyote, you may call Salt Lake County Animal Services dispatch at 801-840-4000.
Coyotes and other unprotected wildlife species can also be reported to urban nuisance wildlife control companies, according to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
