Fairfax County officials are warning residents in the Great Falls area after a coyote attacked several dogs and one resident during daylight hours.
The attacks happened Thursday, June 18, in and around neighborhoods near Utterback Store Road and Streamview Court, according to the Fairfax County Health Department. The county issued its advisory on June 23.
Officials said the coyote was not found despite an extensive search, so rabies cannot be ruled out as a reason for the attacks.
Letting a dog outside, walking near wooded edges, or allowing a cat to roam can become risky when a coyote is acting aggressively or appears sick.
The Person and Dogs Had Non-Life-Threatening Injuries
FFXnow reported that the resident and dogs sustained non-life-threatening injuries, citing the Fairfax County Department of Animal Services.
The department told FFXnow that the pets were evaluated and treated at an emergency veterinary clinic. As of that report, the county had not received more calls about a coyote since the June 18 attacks.
Officials Say Not To Run From a Coyote
Fairfax County said anyone who sees a coyote should stay calm, keep distance, and avoid running. The county advises people to back away promptly but calmly while giving the animal space.
If a coyote approaches or is near a home, officials recommend yelling, waving arms, using a noisemaker such as a whistle or air horn, tossing small objects such as sticks or rocks toward it, or spraying it with water if available.
Pets Should Stay Close and Vaccinated
The county says residents should stay away from wild animals, keep pets from roaming unattended, keep dogs leashed, and make sure pets are vaccinated against rabies.
Fairfax County’s coyote and pet safety guide says most local coyote incidents involving pets include unattended dogs, dogs running loose off leash, and cats allowed to roam. It also advises dog owners to use a short leash, avoid known coyote activity areas, keep cats indoors, remove outdoor food sources, and keep pet food inside or in a secure bin.
Anyone who may have touched, been bitten, or been scratched by a wild animal should call the Fairfax County Health Department Rabies Program at 703-246-2433. If a pet may have had contact with a wild animal, residents should contact the Fairfax County Department of Animal Services at 703-691-2131.