How To Protect Your Pets From Coyotes In Upstate NY

As pet owners, we do our best to keep our furry friends safe, but this time of year brings a different kind of risk. Coyote mating season is underway, and that means more sightings and potential encounters.

Coyotes become more active and territorial during this period, and small pets can easily become targets if they’re left unattended.

Coyotes often hunt at night and can use calls that sound like distressed animals to draw pets closer. It’s unsettling, but there are ways to protect your pets and reduce the chances of a run-in.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation offers a few key tips:

Don’t let coyotes approach: If one gets too close, make loud noises, wave your arms, or throw small objects to scare it away.

Keep pets supervised: Stay outside with them, especially after sunset, and don’t let them roam freely.

Secure your yard: A fence taller than four feet that extends a few inches underground can help keep coyotes out.

Cut back brush: Clear tall grass and overgrown areas that give coyotes places to hide.

Teach kids to keep their distance: Encourage them to watch wildlife safely from afar.

Coyotes are naturally wary of humans, but they lose that fear if they become too comfortable around neighborhoods. Keeping your yard clean, your pets close, and making some noise when needed can go a long way in keeping everyone safe during this active season.