Attention, all animal owners!
Posted on: January 7, 2024 - 5:53pm
A brazen attack on a large dog during daylight hours occurred yesterday in Canfield Woods by a pack of 5-6 coyotes while dog and owner were walking along a trail. The dog was unleashed.
The DR Land Trust requested this information be made public so that all could be aware and take precautions. The Town of Deep River - Conservation & IW Commission is the owner of both Canfield and the new 2.5 acre property on Rattling Valley. Jeff Croyle, president of Essex Land Trust sent out a letter offering advice should you encounter a coyote. The Essex Land Trust are the owners of Canfield Woods in Essex.
The DR Land Trust requested this information be made public so that all could be aware and take precautions. The Town of Deep River - Conservation & IW Commission is the owner of both Canfield and the new 2.5 acre property on Rattling Valley. Jeff Croyle, president of Essex Land Trust sent out a letter offering advice should you encounter a coyote. The Essex Land Trust are the owners of Canfield Woods in Essex.
According to the CT State DEEP website, January through March is mating season for coyotes. They are known to become more aggressive during this time and when their pups arrive in April.
From Essex Land Trust
The ELT is sorry to hear about a coyote pack attack on an unleashed dog on the Margaret Canfield Trail on January 6th.
Animal Control and CT DEEP were immediately notified.
Incidents like this should immediately be reported to the Town of Essex Animal Control at 860-391-7127 as well as 911.
The best way to protect your dog is to leash up.
If you encounter a coyote:
- Do Not Run - Do not run from a coyote. Running will trigger the coyote hunter instinct. Instead, pick up small children, shorten your dog’s leash, and slowly back away. Maintain eye contact, and never turn your back on the coyote.
- Be Loud – Adult coyotes typically weigh around 50 pounds and they don’t usually attack anything bigger than them. Do everything you can to make yourself a big scary human. Wave your arms above your head and make noise. Yell, clap your hands and tell the coyote to go away. Be loud and firm. Don’t make high-pitched sounds that can be mistaken for prey.
- Throw Things - If the coyote keeps approaching, throw things at it. Sticks, rocks, items from your hiking pack - throw anything within reach. As you throw things, face forward. Avoid bending down or turning your back on the coyote. Remain upright, shouting, and throwing until the coyote flees. If the coyote doesn’t flee, prepare for a fight.
Please remember that Hunting is NOT permitted on this Deep River town land or on Land Trust land or on Essex Land Trust land at any time.