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Coyote Attacks Dog, Terrifies Irvington Family
17 Jun
Summary
- A coyote attacked a family dog, leaving it with 16 puncture wounds.
- The same coyote may have approached a toddler playing outside.
- Increased coyote activity is reported during pupping season.
Residents of Irvington are on edge following two alarming coyote encounters last Friday evening. In one incident, a family dog named Becky was severely injured, suffering 16 puncture wounds after a coyote dug under a fence and attacked her. Becky's owner described a prolonged struggle where the coyote dragged the dog and only released its grip when startled by approaching police sirens.
Earlier the same night, a different resident reported a coyote approaching her two-year-old son as he played in their driveway. The mother used her son's bicycle to fend off the persistent animal before her own dog scared it away. Police were unable to locate the coyote on the night of the attacks.
While coyote sightings have decreased since the weekend, the Hastings-on-Hudson Police Department has noted an increase in coyote activity and daytime sightings. Officials explain this behavior is common during pupping season when adult coyotes hunt more actively to feed their young and may become more territorial.
Authorities urge caution, especially if coyotes appear unafraid of humans, approach people or pets, or display signs of illness. The incidents have left some residents feeling unsafe, with children hesitant to play outdoors.
