Coyote Precautions for Worried Pet Owners
Due to the recent encounters with coyotes throughout the City, the LA/SPCA encourages pet owners to take precautions and stresses the importance of the leash law. Some safety measures to keep in mind include:
- Bring all pets indoors, even if they predominantly live outdoors.
- Supervise outside time for pets. Coyotes can harm animals if they are unattended.
- When walking the dog, carry an air horn or walking stick as deterrent for a coyote.
- Always use a leash on the dog and keep them close at all times.
- Put all trash in a heavy bag inside of a trash can, and securely close the lid. This will limit food sources for the coyote.
- Close off small spaces under porches, decks, or sheds, and keep the property well lit to scare away any potential danger.
Coyotes live in close proximity to humans, and linger in vacant lots, levees, river banks or parks. They tend to travel alone or in pairs, and mostly during daylight hours. They eat insects, rodents, and small mammals, but also fruit, vegetable remains and trash. When coyotes travel in larger packs, however, they hunt larger prey.
The LA/SPCA urges all residents to follow the leash law. Under the Code of Ordinances for New Orleans, the leash law states that dogs must be vaccinated and kept on a leash while they are not on their own property. This is not only for the dog’s safety, but for the safety of neighbors, children, and other animals.
The LA/SPCA is directing coyote complaints to private wildlife trapping professionals. For cruelty complaints please do not hesitate to contact LA/SPCA Animal Control at 504-368-5191 ext. 100.
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