Police issue warning after family pet attacked by wild animal in Summit
Animal control is investigating the incident that happened in the area of Dale Drive.
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Police in Summit are reminding residents what to do if they encounter a wild animal after a dog was attacked on Sunday by what is believed to be a coyote
Officials say coyotes are typically non-confrontational and they are looking for easy food sources. They say that this doesn't mean they will not become aggressive.
"Here in Summit, coyote attacks are not a common thing. They are very rare,” says Sumit Police Lt. Charles Daly.
Authorities say a dog was bitten by a wild animal in the area of Dale Drive Sunday night.
Police tell News 12 that they are not sure if it was a coyote or a fox, but it was a wild animal.
MORE TIPS: 10 tips to help prevent conflicts between people and coyotes
Summit police with a list of things to help keep ourselves safe.
Be aware of the surroundings during early mornings and evenings. This is when these animals are more active.
Make sure you secure any kind of food sources that coyotes may try to locate due to the weather getting colder.
Don’t turn your back and run away. You should face the animal and make yourself as large as possible and make as much noise as you possibly can.
Make sure you put yourself in between your child or pet so that a wild animal does not mistakenly deem them as a food source.
Authorities have notified animal control about Sunday’s attack. News 12 is told that after the attack, the animal ran into a wooden area.
"We all have to be careful about our dogs and even if you have children. You have to keep an eye out on them. I know there was a big scare when there were bears around. But that's typical of this area," says Renee Napoli, owner of a 5-month puppy.
According to officials, dogs smaller than 40 pounds are often regarded by coyotes as prey and larger dogs could be seen as a threat or competitor.
News 12 has also learned that the dog injured in the attack is expected to make a full recovery.
