Coyote Attacks Have Killed Multiple Toronto Dogs This Year

Make sure to keep an extra eye on your dogs. Toronto Animal Services has confirmed that at least five dogs have been killed as a result of coyote attacks this year.

According to the City, a total of 10 dogs have been attacked by the predators as of July 21, 2021, with only half of them surviving.

TAS has also received at least three reports of dogs being chased by coyotes, but not bitten.

In 2020, 10 dogs were also bitten by coyotes, but only one was reported to have been killed.

The data also suggest that coyote sightings have been on the rise this year, with 1,389 so far. However, the City states that sightings don't always reflect the coyote population in the area.

"Sometimes, the same coyote could be reported by a number of people in the same location, so there may be duplication. Also, residents may mistakenly identify other animals as coyotes," reads a statement.

"The increase in the number of sightings could be because more people are staying home because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents may be noticing coyotes in their neighbourhoods more often during the pandemic."