Crime & Safety
Police Issue Coyote Warning Sparked by Deadly Attacks on Small Dogs
Six small dogs have been killed recently by coyotes at Top of the World.
Six small dogs have been killed over the last few months by coyotes at the Top of the World area of Laguna Beach, and police are reminding residents to take extra precautions.
The most recent deadly attack happened on Oct. 24 in the 2800 block of Park Avenue. A 13-year-old Pomeranian was killed during the attack, according to Laguna Beach police Capt. Jason Kravetz. A silky terrier was also killed last month at a home in the 3100 block of Bern Drive. Kravetz said the attack happened on Oct. 11 when the coyote killed the silky terrier in its backyard.
On Aug. 19 a 13-year-old Pug/French Bulldog mix was attacked and killed by a coyote in the 1400 block of Regatta Road.
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"All the attacks occurred in the backyards of the homes while the animals were presumably going to the restroom," Kravetz explained.
On July 25 a Yorkie in the 2700 block of Temple Hills Drive was attacked when its owner let it into the backyard to exercise. When the owner went to check on the dog, it was missing and there was evidence left behind which indicated the dog had been taken by coyotes, Kravetz said.
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On July 18 two Yorkies in the 3100 block of Bern Drive went missing. The owner told police the Yorkies were likely taken by coyotes after they went into the backyard through the dog door. Kravetz said there was evidence left in the yard indicating the Yorkies had been taken by coyotes.
Safety Tips1. Do not leave small pets or children unsupervised outside homes or in wilderness areas.
2. Carry a walking stick or golf club with you during any walks or hikes. Do not walk or hike alone.
3. Always keep your pet dogs on a leash when off of your own property.
4. Trim or thin out shrubbery around your home to reduce the chance of the coyote setting up a den or hiding on your property.
5. If confronted by a coyote, stand as tall as possible, shout at the animal in an attempt to scare it away. If that fails, and without placing yourself in danger, throw rocks in the coyote’s direction to try to hit it.
6. If a coyote attacks a person, call 911 immediately.
To report a coyote sighting, call Laguna Beach Animal Services at 949- 497-0701.
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