The death of two small dogs killed by a coyote is again raising concerns about how dangerous the animals are.
Coyotes have grown to adapt to city living, generally keeping a low-profile, living on small prey including rabbits, squirrels and other rodents.
But they're not discerning eaters.
"Why go having to invest a lot of time in hunting down a rabbit, when you've got an easy meal in the city?" says Brian Salt of Salthaven Animal Rehabilitation.
Salt says it's important to take away the temptation for the coyote.
"Doing simple things, don't let your dogs and cats run lose. And taking in food at night, rather than leaving it out. Picking up fruit underneath fruit trees, coyotes will eat that, too," says Salt.
Taking a walk with his family in the ravine where the coyote attacks occurred, Derron Burrell says he doesn't worry about the predators but he would protect the young ones.
"I wouldn't let them try to run because most likely coyotes like to chase because they're wild. So, I would stand and look and see what they're up to," says Burrell.
The only other recommendation Salt has, is to make yourself big and loud.
Coyotes are looking for an easy meal, not a hard fight.
It is believed that two dogs were attacked by a coyote Friday in a backyard in the area of Commissioners and Wharncliffe.
One dog died due to its injuries and the other was severely injured.
Residents should use the city pathways in the area with caution, especially if they are walking with family pets.
Call 911 if you see a coyote.
