Toronto warns pet owners after coyotes killed two dogs this month

Thestar.com
Jan. 26, 2021

Toronto residents are reminded to always keep a close eye on their pets after two dogs were killed by coyotes this month.

In a Friday news release, the City of Toronto said while coyotes do not pose a danger for humans, they can injure or kill cats and small dogs.

“Residents living near green spaces, ravines and other areas where there are coyotes, should only take pets out into their backyard with them and supervise their pets at all times. Cats should be kept indoors or supervised while outside,” the City said.

“When walking, keep dogs on leash and close by at all times, especially in areas of Toronto where there are known to be coyotes. Allow dogs off-leash only in designated dog-off-leash areas, stay close and ensure dogs respond well to voice commands.”

When contacted on Monday, Toronto Animal Services said that due to privacy concerns, the general locations of where the two dogs were killed wouldn’t be revealed.

The City reminded people that it is not uncommon to see coyotes, which are part of Toronto’s “natural urban landscape” and are an “important part of the ecosystem” that control rodent and rabbit populations, during the winter months.

To minimize negative encounters with coyotes, residents are urged to:

Never feed coyotes and don’t leave food, including pet food, outside.

It is against the city bylaw to feed coyotes and anyone who sees another person feeding a coyote should contact 311.

Coyote sightings can be reported to Toronto Animal Services by calling 416-338-PAWS (7297) or emailing animalservices@toronto.ca.