Three people bit by coyote, or coyotes, in area of Vaughan's Pheasant Hollow Park

Victims receiving rabies shots after wildlife run-ins

Yorkregion.com
October 22, 2020
John Cudmore

Three people were bit by a coyote, or possibly different coyotes, in Vaughan during a recent three-day span.

All three incidents occurred near Pheasant Hollow Park, located in the vicinity of Rutherford Road, between Dufferin and Keele streets.

One of the incidents occurred Oct. 15; the other two occurred Oct. 17, according to York Region Public Health.

It is unknown if the same coyote is responsible for all three incidents.

The bite victims are recovering at home and receiving post-exposure rabies vaccine.

There have also been coyote sightings reported in Agostino Park.

City of Vaughan Animal Control has been notified and is investigating.

Residents are reminded to avoid approaching, feeding or coming into contact with wildlife. Some animals, including bats, coyotes, foxes, skunks and raccoons, may be infected with the rabies virus.

Residents should follow these practical steps that will help minimize negative encounters with coyotes or other wild animals:

• Never feed a coyote or any wild animal.
• Do not feed domestic pets outside.
• Keep dogs on a leash and cats indoors or supervised while outside.
• If you encounter a coyote, keep your distance and keep pets on a leash.

If the coyote is aggressive:

1. Stop, and pick up small children and pets.
2. Shout loudly, wave your arms high in the air or use whistle.
3. Back away slowly, while remaining calm.
4. Never run or turn your back on a coyote.

If you see an aggressive, sick or injured coyote that you feel may pose an immediate danger to public safety, call your municipality’s animal control services or 911 immediately.

If you have been bitten, scratched or had contact with an animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and water for a minimum of 15 minutes, seek medical attention and report the incident to public health at 1-800-361-5653.

More information on preventing and managing conflicts with coyotes, including making your property uninviting for them, preventing conflicts with dogs and protecting wildlife, is available at Ontario.ca.