The weather is gorgeous right now! With this beautiful weather comes sightings of wild creatures we aren't used to seeing. We've been hearing a lot of news stories about a recent increase in coyote activity in the valley. And, no, it's not of the Willy Coyote type.
The most recent news story was about a 2 year old girl who was bitten by a coyote on the back while playing in a North Phoenix park. Spring is the season when coyotes are at the end of their mating cycle and with new cubs to feed, coyotes are hunting for more food. As a dog walker, I walk dogs in several neighborhoods that border open desert areas and have been noticing more coyotes lately and have had neighboring residents warn me of early morning sightings in the areas I walk. Just today, for instance, there was a coyote just ahead of me and one of my walking buddies. A nice gentleman in a blue truck (who may or may not read this) was kind enough to travel slightly ahead of us and honk his horn at the coyote in an attempt to scare him off. The coyote didn't end up bothering us and thankfully headed off in another direction.
In order to keep myself and my clients pets safe I carry a spray called Spray Shield Animal Deterrent Spray. It is like pepper spray, but works on aggressive animals and contains citronella. It can be found in most pet supply stores. The spray stream is up to 10 feet, so you don't have to wait until the aggressive animal is close to you to use it. If you are walking your dogs near open desert areas I suggest carrying something like this or a large stick, something you could throw at a coyote to scare it away.
Officials with the Arizona Game and Fish Department suggests that if you are approached by a coyote, do not run. Try to make yourself appear larger and more aggressive to scare the coyote away.
Coyotes have also been known to jump fences of residential neighborhoods and take away small pets for food. Keep your pets safe this spring...if you have seen coyotes in your neighborhood, do not let your small pets outside by themselves. It is best to accompany your pets when they have to go outside. You will act as your pets savior by scaring away any potential danger.
Keeping your pets indoors while you are at work will save them during the day when you can't be there. Even having a doggie door allows a coyote entrance into your home and can still pray on your fur kids. Keep that doggie door closed and call on Play Time pet sitters to help save your pet and your carpet by coming by and letting your precious pet out for a mid -day potty break. Give us a call at 480-292-9735 for your no obligation consultation. We'd love to meet you and your furry friends!
Keeping your pets indoors while you are at work will save them during the day when you can't be there. Even having a doggie door allows a coyote entrance into your home and can still pray on your fur kids. Keep that doggie door closed and call on Play Time pet sitters to help save your pet and your carpet by coming by and letting your precious pet out for a mid -day potty break. Give us a call at 480-292-9735 for your no obligation consultation. We'd love to meet you and your furry friends!
