In recent years, pet parents have had to face increased encounters with urban wildlife. Developments encroaching further onto what was previously open forest causes increasing fragmentation of animal habitats. As a result, it’s not uncommon for wild creatures to cross paths with domestic animals. Unfortunately, while some of these encounters are beautiful, on many occasions they can be dangerous for both pets and wildlife.
These situations grow even more complex when a human is involved — especially a child with only their pup to protect them.
A Casual Walk Turns Dangerous
Coyotes are common throughout Massachusetts, thriving in both urban and natural environments. For the most part, interactions with humans are fairly benign. Once spotted, coyotes tend to disappear. But, in this case, a child walking a dog in the Hingham neighborhood was followed home by a coyote. Thankfully, the coyote followed from a distance and did not attack either the child or the pet. It’s possible that the dog’s presence successfully warded off the other canine while the child made it safely home.
Protecting Pets and Wildlife
While abnormal encounters do occur between dogs and wildlife, there are steps you can take to keep both parties safe. Keep in mind that in most instances, attacks on pets occur defensively or as a food source. Do not let dogs off leash in areas where coyotes may be present, and don’t let small pups outside unattended. They can even be carried off by a large bird of prey in some circumstances. Follow safety tips when there is a chance your pup could interact with a wild canine, or any wildlife in general. Even seemingly harmless animals like squirrels or chipmunks potentially carry diseases deadly to person and pet.
