LAKE BLUFF, Ill. (WLS) — Tragedy struck a family when their beloved canine friend was snatched by a coyote right from their yard, later disappearing into nearby woods in the northern suburbs.
According to village officials, this distressing event took place on Thursday afternoon within the Tangley Oaks neighborhood in Lake Bluff.
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Officials stated that a coyote took the family’s small dog from their yard, fleeing into the wooded area that borders the community.
The dog, affectionately called Stan, remains missing and is presumed to have succumbed following the harrowing incident.
The heartbroken owners shared with ABC7 that they were supervising Stan closely and were within just 10 feet when the sudden coyote encounter unfolded.
Lake Bluff police and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources are investigating the incident.
Village officials said they believe this is the first incident of its kind in Lake Bluff.
Officials shared the following tips for pet owners:
- Keep small pets close and supervised when outdoors, including in fenced yards.
- If you encounter a coyote, do not run. Stand tall, make yourself appear larger, yell, clap your hands, wave your arms, or use a whistle or other noise-making device.
- If the coyote moves away but stops and looks back, continue making noise and appearing large until it leaves the area.
- Never intentionally feed coyotes, and remove outdoor food sources that may attract coyotes or their prey.
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