Officials are warning the community after a resident witnessed a coyote take their dog from their yard in Lake Bluff Wednesday and carry it off into a wooded area, with the pet being presumed dead.
The Lake Bluff Police Department responded on Wednesday to a report from a Tangley Oaks resident about a coyote attack.
Village officials say a coyote took a small dog from a home’s yard and carried it into a wooded area.
Officers responded and searched the area but the dog has not been recovered and is believed to have died as a result of the incident.
The police department is working with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to document the incident.
The incident is believed to be the first reported incident of its kind in Lake Bluff.
“Coyotes are a natural part of our region, and seeing one does not necessarily indicate a threat to people or pets. However, this incident is an important reminder to take precautions, particularly with small pets,” the village said in a statement.
Ken Robertson said the incident involved his family’s dog, Stanley. There was no fence in the yard and the coyote came from the woods on their property.
His wife was outside with their dogs approximately 10 feet away and witnessed it.
“She chased and screamed at the coyote, but it grabbed Stan and ran away. We have seen the coyotes in the neighborhood, so have been diligent about being with them when they go outside. This happened so fast, with a person right there,” Robertson said.
Officials recommend that residents keep small pets close and supervised when outdoors, including in fenced yards.
Those who encounter a coyote should not run. “Stand tall, make yourself appear larger, yell, clap your hands, wave your arms, or use a whistle or other noise-making device.”
People should continue making noise and appearing large until it leaves the area.
Residents should also never intentionally feed coyotes and ensure that outdoor food sources that may attract coyotes or their prey are removed.
Anyone who experiences a coyote behaving aggressively or posing an immediate threat to people should move to a safe location and call 911.