Coyote Warning Issued In Southbury After Several Attacks On Dogs

SOUTHBURY, CT — Coyotes attempted to attack several dogs and their owners in Southbury Tuesday, prompting the town Animal Control Department to issue a warning for residents to be on the lookout to avoid such encounters.

"Unfortunately, on Tuesday, 07/20/21, there were multiple attempted coyote attacks on dogs and their owners in the Platt Park / Traditions area," officials wrote in an email to residents. "One dog was successfully attacked by a coyote and was seen by a veterinarian for injuries and a Rabies vaccination booster. Southbury Animal Control has strict Rabies protocol to follow when wildlife encounters take place. Because of this, Southbury Animal Control would like to urge all pet owners to report wildlife encounters immediately."

The dog that was attacked has been placed on 45-day strict confinement and will be monitored for any symptoms of rabies, but if the pet had not had rabies vaccinations, it may have been placed on a six-month quarantine, officials said.

The pet also may have been subject to mandated euthanasia as rabies virus poses a public health and safety issue.

Some common symptoms of rabies includes:

• Unprovoked aggression
• Difficulty walking
• Excess salivation

"This serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccinations for pets," officials said. "Animal Control asks owners to make certain that all pets, indoor and outdoor, are up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations. Animal Control would like to remind pet owners to supervise their pets and to be cautious of leaving them unattended while outdoors, especially during the evening."

Southbury Animal Control Department urges anyone who has had contact with wildlife (or if their pet has had an encounter) to call the department at 203-262-0613. Also follow up with a healthcare provider and/or veterinarian.

For more information on coyotes, visit: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Fact-Sheets/Coyote.

For information on rabies, visit: https://portal.ct.gov/DOAG/Regulatory/Regulatory/Rabies-Manual.