WRENTHAM, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Police in Wrentham have issued a warning about coyotes in the area.
Lieutenant Steve Eaton said that two dogs in Wrentham were killed by coyotes within one week in December.
"We had one on Thurston Street and the other on a side street off of Creek Street."
With more coyotes living closer to homes, Eaton said it's important to always keep an eye on smaller pets.
"Whether you have dogs, cats, chickens, or any other small animals, be vigilant."
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He said don't let small dogs out off-leash, especially at night or in early morning.
"Both of them were small dogs that were let out either at night or early morning."
He is speaking from experience.
"I lost my chickens a number of years back from a wild animal getting into the cage. It's not a fun thing to go outside and deal with."
State officials recommend taking the following steps to protect yourself and your animals:
- Remove bird feeders
- Secure your garbage
- Protect produce and livestock
- Feed pets indoors
- Close off crawl spaces like sheds and porches
- Cut back brush edges in order to not provide cover
WBZ NewsRadio's Suzanne Sausville (@WBZSausville) reports.