Coyote Snatches Dog from Laguna Woods Woman

Reports of coyotes running loose in Laguna Woods were called in by several citizens in the region Tuesday morning, according to Lt. Jason Kravetz of the Laguna Beach Police Department.

"Many phone calls" were received, according to Kravetz. Laguna Beach's two Animal Service Officers summarily responded to the region of Via Alhambra and Alta Via streets.

While the officers searched for the coyotes, another call was received at 10:11 a.m. from a Laguna Woods resident, who stated that a coyote had knocked down a woman and snatched her Yorkie dog.

"They're pretty brazen, running around the neighborhood,'' Kravetz said.

The woman sustained minor injuries and was treated by the Orange County Fire Authority.

That attack occurred on Via Alhambra. Two coyotes were last seen running from the area with the Yorkie. Laguna Beach Animal Services continue to be on the lookout for the coyotes.

The encounter is the latest in what has been a busy period of sightings, including a report last week that at least one coyote was seen along the perimeter of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Canyon. They are showing little fear of humans, partially due to reports of Laguna Woods residents feeding coyotes. Read a June article on Laguna Beach Patch that goes into further detail by clicking this link.

Police have set coyote traps in the area over the past few months in response to resident reports of cats and small dogs being dragged off by the animals. Normally nocturnal hunters, the increase in sightings and incidents is largely due to the canine's need for food.

People are being urged to walk with a partner, especially around dawn and dusk, and to keep pets on leashes. Smaller pets should be kept inside overnight, Kravetz said. Trash can lids should be secured, and food and water sources removed from outside. If confronted by a coyote, people should stand tall, shout and wave something over their heads, if possible.