Coyote sightings shut down Clovis park, dog survives attack
CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) -- Rotary Park in Clovis is temporarily closed following a series of coyote sightings and an attack a small dog narrowly escaped.
"All of a sudden behind me I hear people behind me yelling 'Hey there's a coyote! There's a coyote!'" recalled dog owner Hailie Jepsen.
A trip to the park turned into a nightmare Tuesday night for Hailie Jepsen and her 8-month-old Shih Tzu, Beau.
Jepsen says the coyote terrorized Beau, first grabbing his harness and then his leash.
"I felt helpless and it's really scary feeling helpless when it's your dog and you're supposed to help and protect them," said Jepsen.
Beau was able to get away without a scratch, but his vet says his muscles are strained from the traumatic encounter.
Clovis police say there were two coyote sightings in Rotary Park on Tuesday, including Jepsen's.
Officials also suspect there is an adult coyote and her young pups in the area and are urging people to stay alert.
"It is really scary and nerve-wracking to know that there are dangerous animals in the park," said 8-year-old Reina Mendoza, who visits the park everyday.
Mendoza said the closure has paused her daily visits to the park with her dad.
"We like to get fresh air and sometimes I wanna just go play so he'll take me to the park right there but the past few days we haven't been really going cause of the whole coyote situation," said Mendoza.
Meanwhile, city officials are working to get the park reopened.
"We are in communication with Fish and Wildlife. Just trying to get the best information we can regarding the coyote. I don't know for sure when the park will be open. I don't anticipate it being closed for too long," said City of Clovis Park Manager, Eric Aller.
The city doesn't have any recreational groups wanting to use the park but as summer goes on, that could change.
"When it comes to coyotes, it's really a tough situation. Coyotes have adapted to urban landscapes all over the state," said California Department of Fish and Wildlife spokesperson, Ken Paglia.
He said coyotes are vital to the ecosystem. And the only way to remove a coyote is if it poses a threat to people. Since that hasn't happened, Paglia says it's best to not take any chances if you see a coyote.
"Keep your distance, modify your routes, keep your pets on a leash obviously, remove all attractants, like food water, and cover if possible," Paglia explained.
To report coyotes sightings a the park, click here.
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