Lincoln, Neb. – With coyotes being very thick this time of year, Nebraska Game and Parks Commissions wants to remind owners of mall pets to be vigilant to protect them from possible coyote encounters.
The commission suggest also people should haze coyotes away whenever possible to keep them wild and afraid of humans.
Here are some tips to help keep pets safe:
- Do not approach or feed a coyote or other wildlife
- Do not leave pet food outside.
- Keep pets on a leash, and do not let them roam at night.
- Keep an eye on your pet and keep it close, even if just letting it out into the yard for a few minutes.
- In the rare instance that a coyote acts aggressively, get inside a building or vehicle, if possible.
- If a coyote attacks, lift pets or children and fight back with sticks, rocks, or any other object while you back away.
Coyotes that attack on people are very rare; coyotes typically avoid people. They are common throughout Nebraska, even in areas near cities such as creek bottoms, green space with tall grass, and agricultural fields.
People who see a coyote not showing fear of humans or have had a pet attacked by a coyote should call Game and Parks at 402-471-0641.
