Lakewood Police are sending out warnings to residents after coyote sightings have been reported in recent weeks.
Coyotes are being spotted across Northeast Ohio as mating season begins. Lakewood Police are once again reminding residents not to leave their dogs alone outside.
“Coyotes become a little more aggressive, they roam a little bit more looking for mates, looking for a place to have a den,” said Lakewood Captain Gary Stone, who supervises animal control. “They’re more apt to be walking around places where there are residences and things of that sort.”
Last year, several pets were killed after being attacked by coyotes.
In March, Lakewood police set up snares after attacks. Stone says, at this point, there are no plans to do that this year.
“We’ve had a few sightings of coyotes, but we have not had any instances where a family pet has been attacked by one in several months now,” said Stone.
The sightings have been reported in neighborhoods near the lake. Stone thinks there are dens along the shore.
Stone is reminding homeowners to watch pets closely. Do not leave dogs unattended, even if they are on a leash. And, keep garbage cans covered.
If you see a coyote, make noise and yell. Stone says, more often than not, the animals will leave people alone.
“Coyotes are always going to be around. We have to just learn in an urban environment how to coexist with these animals.
