Protecting Your Pets from Coyotes in Laguna Woods and Orange County

Coyotes are a natural part of the Orange County ecosystem, including areas around Laguna Woods. While most encounters are harmless, coyotes can pose a threat to small pets. Understanding coyote behavior and taking preventive measures protects your furry family members.

Coyote Activity in Laguna Woods

Coyotes are most active during dawn and dusk but can be seen any time of day, especially during mating season (January-March) and when raising pups (April-August). Urban development near wilderness areas brings coyotes into residential neighborhoods.

Protecting Your Pets

• Supervise all outdoor time for pets under 25 pounds
• Walk dogs on leash, especially dawn and dusk
• Install coyote-proof fencing (6+ feet with roller bars)
• Remove attractants: pet food, fallen fruit, unsecured trash
• Use motion-activated lights and sprinklers
• Keep cats indoors - outdoor cats are especially vulnerable
• Don't allow dogs to approach or chase coyotes

What to Do During a Coyote Encounter

If you encounter a coyote while walking your dog: pick up small dogs immediately, keep your dog close and on-leash, make yourself appear large, make loud noises and wave arms, throw objects toward (not at) the coyote, and back away slowly while facing the coyote - never run.

Hazing: Teaching Coyotes to Fear Humans

Hazing reinforces coyotes' natural fear of humans. When you see a coyote in your neighborhood, yell, wave arms, use noisemakers, spray water, and continue until the coyote leaves the area. Never haze coyotes that appear sick, injured, or with pups.

If Your Pet Is Attacked

Even if your pet appears uninjured, seek immediate veterinary care at OC Vet Animal Hospital. Coyote bites can cause puncture wounds that become infected. Report all coyote attacks to Laguna Woods Animal Services and California Department of Fish and Wildlife.