By Flint Adam
NewsChannel 3

Wildlife experts are warning pet owners to keep an eye on their dogs and cats. Recently, a woman's small dog was attacked during a walk in the middle of the day in Palm Springs.

The dog park off San Pablo in Palm Desert is a busy place in the morning.

Some days, you'll find Patrick Ryan there with his dog. He likes that the park is fenced, keeping his dog safe from threats like coyotes. In fact, he spotted one on his way to the park.

"I saw a coyote trying to jump the fence over by Palm Desert Country Club off Fred Waring."

Coyotes recently snatched a woman's dog in Palm Springs. She was walking in a lot near the DMV when her Jack Russell Terrier was grabbed. Ryan says the news is shocking.

"It's pretty scary, actually. I'm afraid for myself, plus the dog."

Hugh Wright, an animal control officer in Palm Springs, says pet owners are playing with fire when they bring their animals to areas commonly roamed by wildlife, like coyotes.

"They are predatory and they will take every opportunity to take out an easy prey."

He says mountain trails and rugged areas are danger-zones because coyotes can sneak up before you notice.

"The best environment is a protected environment. Walk them in a well-lit area, in a well-established area, and you should be okay."
Wright says it's best to walk your dog during daylight. He also suggests keeping sturdy leashes and collars on pets and perhaps carry a stick.

That's something Peggy Sankey started doing after run-ins with neighborhood dogs.

"Some dogs get out of their yards. One that I faced was kind of aggressive, so I did carry a stick."

Finally, officials say respect where you live. This is a desert, with wild animals, so caution is always needed, especially as our homes mix with theirs.

"Well, they have a right to exist, too, but we're encroaching on them, so they don't have much choice except to come down and get their food supply from us."