Keep watch on pets, Bloomington warns after coyote attacks

Bloomington officials are urging residents with pets to be cautious following recent reports of coyote attacks on dogs in the southwest part of the city.

"We advise all residents with small- to medium-sized dogs to be on alert. We have received several reports of recent coyote attacks on dogs, some resulting in death," the city said in a statement, adding that the alert also applies to cats and that no pets should be left alone outside.

Coyote sightings have been increasing in the Twin Cities suburbs the past few years.

Bloomington officials said the best approach if you see any coyotes is to "haze them, yell, clap or bang pots and pans together, creating loud noises to scare the coyotes away."

The coyote population in the Twin Cities has grown significantly in the last decade, leading to more sightings in suburban parks, streets and backyards. They've also been on the grounds of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

Dos and Don'ts on urban coyotes

Here's some advice from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources on what to do and what to avoid when it comes to coyotes in the Twin Cities.

Do:
• Secure all garbage containers, wildlife feeders, and other food sources to prevent coyote access
• Confine small dogs and cats in kennels, or supervise them when outside
• Vaccinate all pets for rabies, distemper, parvo, and other diseases, as recommended by a veterinarian
• Harass (by chasing, shouting, etc.) any coyotes that do not immediately run from people

Do not:
• Feed coyotes
• Leave pet food outside
• Allow cats and small dogs outside unattended