Bosom Buddies; Smokey & BoBo

It is not reasonable to assume that we can rid our neighborhoods of all dangers. Coyotes are far too smart to be easily trapped in cages. Other forms of rather inhumane extermination is expensive, and may not be supported by local authorities.

The conclusion that we came to is that the best protection is simply to keep your pets in the security of your home. I know that most cats that have had the freedom of the outdoors will simply say "No Way" and promptly throw a temper tantrum.

Unfortunately the outdoors has a whole host of dangers for small domesticated animals. At the very least there is automobile traffic, poisons (like anti-freeze, and rat poisons), other (more agressive) animals, places to fall and get tangled into, and of course coyotes. Even the tiny mosquito can transfer a deadly heart worm to terminate a cat's life.

So when your pet is outdoors, you will run a probable risk of danger to your animal. You can reduce this probable risk with precautions, but you will never have a guaranteed protection.

The following tips come from a number of sources. We hope that this helps.

• Bring your pet in at night. This is not a guaranteed. We have heard of coyote attacks during the daytime. Remember they will do what they have to do to stay fed. However they generally hunt at night (this includes twilight hours).
• Try to eliminate outdoor odors. Coyotes have a keen sense of smell. Strong garbage odors and food left outdoors is a strong invitation a hungry coyote.
• Be aware of signs that coyotes are in your neighborhood. Missing pet signs, coyote dropping and coyote tracks are evidence that they are on the prowl in your area.
• Wooden stockade fences may deter, but not totally keep all coyotes out of your yard. They can climb many fences (similar to a cat) or just leap over them.
• Take note if your pets seem nervous and frightened if they have been outside. They may have encountered a coyote.
• Always keep a collar (tear away) with proper identification on a pet that is allowed outdoors.
• Be aware that curious cats will sneak into garages, and open building and may be closed inside. Not a coyote loss, but a danger to your pet.
• Do not place any poisons or poisonous chemicals in any place where your pet would have access.

The bottom line is simply to protect your small pet as you would your child. A domesticated cat is generally treated with care, love and may not be prepared for the treatment and cunning that they may encounter with a predator.

If you have any other suggestions, please let me know.