Coyotes are Out There; Watch Your Pets, Animal Warden Says

There have been no more coyote attacks on dogs reported in the last few weeks, but Animal Warden Mike Roth is warning residents to keep a close eye on their pets.

At risk are "little dogs and cats," Roth said. "They love cats."

He said no incidents have been reported since on Cartwright Parkway and Eldorado Trail, both off Whitney Road, a few weeks ago.

But pet owners are right to be alarmed, he said.

"Keep your pets close by and on a leash," Roth advised.

Coyotes are out hunting for food at night, which means your pet is most at risk during a late-evening or early morning visit to the yard.

Service Director Joe Walker said the city does try to capture coyotes, but they are difficult to trap. 

He also said that because they have no natural enemies, the population is growing quickly as pups are able to mature to adulthood each year.

But Roth said that while there are a number of coyotes in Strongsville, their appetites have not yet taken a toll on smaller wildlife.

"We've still got a lot of raccoons, possums and groundhogs," he said. "We're still real busy with them."