Submitted by the Laguna Beach Police Department:
Recent coyote attacks on domesticated dogs are prompting Laguna Beach Police and Animal Services Employees to hold a Town Hall informational meeting.
This Town Hall is designed to educate the community about the recent incidents and to provide tools for residents to keep their animals safe while outside the home.
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The first incident occurred at a residence in the 3100 block of Bern Drive on July 18th. The pet owner last saw her two Yorkies the previous evening when she went to bed. The dogs were missing the following day and the owner thinks they were taken after going into the backyard through the dog door. There was evidence left in the yard indicating they had been taken by coyotes.
The second coyote incident occurred in the 2700 block of Temple Hills Drive on July 25th during the early morning hours. The pet owner let his Yorkie into the backyard to exercise. After a short while, he went to check on his dog and found it missing. Once again, there was evidence left behind which indicated the dog had been taken by coyotes.
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Pet owners living in these hillside properties are reminded that coyotes and other wildlife roam the areas usually during darkness. Small dogs are most susceptible to being attacked by coyotes because of their size.
Every pet owner is strongly advised not to leave their small dogs or cats unattended while Animal Services Officers attempt to capture the coyotes or determine whether or not they have left the area.
No humans have been accosted by the coyotes and the only know victims have been the three Yorkie dogs.
Citizens with information about coyotes roaming in urban areas are also encouraged to participate in the meeting.
The moderators for the event are Civilian Supervisor Jim Beres and Animal Services Officer John Thompson. Please join them on:
Thursday August 15, 2013 at 6:30 pm at Top of the World Elementary School, Multipurpose Room, located at 21601 Tree Top Lane in Laguna Beach.
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