Aliso Viejo Dog Ruins Coyotes Day

Resident Mike Newman and his Australian Shepherd, Max, were out for a morning walk Wednesday near the Aliso Woods wilderness park (at Soka University) when a coyote charged toward the dog.

Max charged back and was able to corner the coyote, giving the dog and Newman a chance to walk away with no injury.

The 2011 coyote attacks in Laguna Woods promoted the Mission Viejo Animal Services, which serves Aliso Viejo, to release the following warnings.

Residents should call animal services at 949-470-3045 immediately if any of the following occurs:

• Your pet is attacked or killed.
• A coyote is on your property or living close to your property.
• A coyote is acting unusually aggressive toward someone. 
• You have been bitten by a coyote.
• A coyote is injured or appears sick.

Animal services will examine each situation, determining if the coyote is acting unusual or is a threat to the community. 

Coyotes are hunters looking for a food source. While it is in their nature to be fearful of humans, access to human food, backyards or garages changes their behavior—losing their fear.

Mission Viejo Animal Services encourages pet owners to follow these safety practices and precautions:

• Be aware that coyotes are more active in the spring, when feeding and protecting their young.
• If followed by a coyote, make loud noises. If this fails, throw rocks in the animal's direction.
• Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended. 
• Do not allow cats outdoors to roam (day or night).
• Do not use a retractable leash—a leash should be no more than 6 feet. This allows you to be in control of your pet and ensures it's close to you at all times.
• Trim ground-level shrubbery and clear brush near your home to reduce places where coyotes live and hide.
• Keep pet rabbits in suitable cages.
• Keep tight covers on all trash containers, and put trash out on collection day at the latest opportunity.
• Never leave water or pet food outside.
• Never feed coyotes.
• Never attempt to touch, pet or capture wildlife. These animals will bite to protect themselves.