Crime & Safety

Wheaton Police: Coyote Attacks on Small Dogs Reported

In two incidents, a coyote snatched a small dog; in a third, a dog was euthanized after suffering extensive injuries during an attack.

Wheaton police are advising residents with small pets to be alert and take steps to protect their animals after three incidents of coyotes attacking small dogs have been reported since late November.

In two incidents, the elusive canines outright snatched small dogs and left; in the third attack, the dog survived by had to be euthanized because of its extensive injuries, according to a release the city posted on its website Thursday.

Coyotes typically are elusive, remaining out of sight, although their calls can be heard in the evenings in the areas where they live.

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The release states that their food grows more scarce this time of year, which also is when young coyotes mature to the point that head out on their own. That's why coyotes are seen more often this time of year as they roam about in the search for food.

Small dogs, and cats, are small enough for coyotes to prey upon and large enough to represent a good meal.

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The Wheaton Police Department pointed to three recent reports of attacks by coyotes on small dogs:


  • Dec. 10: Two coyotes grabbed a dog from outside a home on the 1100 block of South Marcy Avenue.

  • Dec. 8: A coyote attacked a small dog that was in a fenced yard near North Pierce Avenue and West Liberty Drive. The dog’s injuries were extensive, prompting its euthanization.

  • Nov. 27: A resident was outside with two dogs in the 1700 block of Sjorgren Court. Police said one of the dogs was on a leash, when a coyote quickly ran in and took the unleashed small dog. A Wheaton police officer saw the coyote leaving the area with the dog.

  • Police point out that fenced-in yards are no guarantee of your pet’s safety, and urge residents to always keep an eye on small pets outdoors. Police advise keeping the animals on a leash when possible, too.

    If you encounter a coyote, shout, clap your hands, run toward it or throw something in its direction, the release states. If you see a coyote acting in a threatening manner, call 911, and police officers will respond.

    Feeding coyotes is prohibited by Section 14-102 of the Wheaton City Code and only exacerbates the problem. Also, make sure you are not inadvertently providing them with a source of food, such as pet food that is stored outside or unsecured trash.

    The city of Wheaton offers more information about coyotes on its website, where it also has an online report form to report coyote sightings or incidents.


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