Coyote snatches dog in second attack in Massachusetts this week

HOPKINTON, Mass. (WLNE) — A coyote attack was reported in a second Massachusetts town this week.

Police in Hopkinton said a woman was out walking her dogs on Thursday afternoon when a coyote appeared and snatched one.

An officer helped the woman search the area, but they didn’t find the dog.

“We feel horrible this happened to someone’s fur buddy, they are members of the family and are a tremendous loss when we lose them,” Hopkinton police said.

The attack followed an incident in Fall River on Monday, when a rabid coyote mauled a woman and tried to attack country club workers.

Hopkinton police said dog owners should have their pets on a leash at all times when out on a walk. The department noted that wooded areas are a coyote’s natural habitat.

People are advised to make noise while walking, such as whistling, singing, or stomping.

Anyone who encounters a coyote that doesn’t run off should continue to make lots of noise and wave their arms.

Police said to never run away from a coyote, as it may run after people and pets.