Warning issued after 2 dogs killed by coyotes in Mass. town

Authorities in Wrentham are warning pet owners to take precautions after coyotes killed at least two dogs in separate incidents over the past week.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, Wrentham police said both attacks occurred when dogs were left unattended in yards during overnight or early morning hours. One incident was reported near Thurston Street along the Foxboro line, while the other happened in a neighborhood off Creek Street.

“Please take precautions when letting your dogs out,” police said. “Take them out on a leash or, at least, be out there with them. Bottom line is do not let them out unattended.”

Wrentham Animal Control also addressed the attacks, saying there was no immediate threat to public safety. However, the department echoed the call for increased vigilance.

“We strongly encourage residents to take precautions, particularly during early morning and evening hours. Please do not leave pets — especially small dogs —unattended outside, even in fenced yards. Supervising pets and remaining aware of wildlife activity can help prevent incidents like these from occurring,” animal control officials said.

Wrentham police said the dogs were on the smaller side, while animal control described at least one of the dogs as “medium-sized.”

Coyotes are present in nearly all Massachusetts cities and towns, according to MassWildlife. While attacks are rare, the agency says it’s normal behavior for coyotes to target unattended pets after dark.

“Coyotes can view cats and small dogs as potential food sources and large dogs as competition,” MassWildlife says. “It’s your presence next to your pet that prevents an attack.” 

Morgan Rousseau is a freelance writer for Boston.com, where she reports on a variety of local and regional news.