Wildlife predators can pose a serious threat to your pets. Small dogs, cats, and rabbits are definitely at risk, but even a large domestic dog can lose a battle with a feral creature that survives by hunting. At this time of year, we hear more and more sad and traumatic stories of dogs being snatched by coyotes right from a yard or even off a leash. These tales aren’t just a phenomena of the wild west – they happen in populated areas of Massachusetts and New Jersey, too. Coyotes have been seen in just about every state, and in some states where wolves have been exterminated, they are proliferating. While primarily nocturnal hunters, they can be a threat in daylight hours, too. In the winter, when other food sources are scarce, pets can be a prime part of a predators diet, easy pickings.

Coyotes aren’t the only culprits. Large birds of prey such as eagles, owls, and hawks, – also called raptors – can swoop down and snatch small dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits. Foxes often attack and kill cats, which they view as territorial rivals for their food sources. And when present in a geographic area, large cats such as mountain lions can be a serious threat to pets – as well as to humans.

Many people who live in close proximity to nature understand and prepare for these threats and have learned to peacefully co-exist with their wildlife neighbors. Urban and suburban residents are less prepared, and are often taken by surprise when wildlife encroaches. There can be a tendency to demonize the threat but these wild creatures are just doing what comes naturally. Communities need to ensure that they are taking steps to minimize threats, and it is also up to pet owners to be aware of the threats and to take appropriate precautions.

• First and foremost, learn about the wildlife in your area so you understand if there are animals that could pose a threat to your pets. Many people who lose a pet to coyotes were totally unaware of the potential threat before the attack. Here are two useful resources for researching wildlife in your area: the US Fish & Wildlife Service has a list of state agencies that manage fish and wildlife resources and local Cooperative Extension Services.

• Second, make sure that you are not inadvertently providing an easy food source or doing something to attract predators. Don’t leave dog food, pet food, or water bowls outside – feed your pets inside. Sometimes even a bird-feeder can be a lure for predators that feed on birds, such as foxes and raptors. Store garbage and trash securely, preferably in a building or garage. And it goes without saying that you should never feed or leave food out for wildlife. In some states, it is illegal to feed certain types of wildlife, and even if it is not illegal, it is always unwise.

• Keep pets inside at night – - most predator attacks occur at night. If you must let dogs out, walk them on a leash in a well-lit area by your door.  Be aware that coyotes are often undeterred by humans – it is not uncommon to have a pet snatched right off a leash, with horrified pet owners as witnesses.

• Clear brush from around your home so predators don’t have a place to hide. Motion activated lights and sprinklers may discourage predators from entering the yard. If you think a coyote is around, make loud noises with whistles, horns or by banging pots and pans. In some areas where coyotes are prevalent, some people enclose yards in special coyote-proof fences.

Here are some useful resources to help you learn more about predators and how to protect your pets.

Protect your pets (PDF) – advice from the Canadian Yukon on protecting pets from wolves, coyotes and foxes

Advice from the Denver government on protecting pets from predators

4 steps to keep pets and livestock safe from mountain lions

Living with wildlife – coyotes

Living with wildlife – cougars (mountain lions)

Living with raptors

Living with predators resource guides

Lions, coyotes and bears – living with predators