There have been over half a dozen reports of pets disappearing in the last two weeks on Framingham. Most have been cats but a couple have been small dogs right out of their owners yards. Coyotes are breeding, they are active, and more aggressive than the rest of the year.

If you have a cat, don’t let it outside. If you have an outdoor cat, shame on you. If you have a dog, keep reading.

Coyote breeding typically peaks in late February and early March, with the gestation period averaging 58 to 63 days. “Male coyotes can become more aggressive during this time of year, the long and short of it all is that coyotes always pose a risk to your dog (and other small pets).

When you let your dog out, go out with them. Think your fence will protect Poochie? Think again. A hungry coyote can hop a 6 foot fence with ease and climb larger fences or walls.

Encounter a coyote on a walk with your dog? Leash your dog and pick up and carry a small dog. It is important to have full control over your dog so that they do not run toward, away from, or otherwise engage the coyote. Stand tall and assertive. Coyotes are wary of humans and your presence is usually enough to drive off a coyote. Maintain eye contact. Do not turn your back on the coyote and do not run. Running away can trigger a coyote’s prey drive and may cause him or her to chase you. Normally you’ll want to haze the coyote by making noise, throwing sticks, or shining a flashlight at it… during this time of year you’ll want to assume you might be near a den and be perceived as a threat. During these months, the best thing to do is to slowly and calmly walk away without ever turning your back on the coyote. Coyotes will sometimes follow you for a distance to escort you out of their territory. Stand tall and assertive and do not turn your back on the coyote.

Need more protection: CoyoteVest