By Sherry Nabbie-Singh

Coyote sightings are common in Tamarac, but a resident took to social media to warn others after an encounter.

On May 17th, while walking her dachshund-terrier mix, Cody, Mary Goodman experienced her second coyote attack in the Tamarac community of Woodmont.

“Last night at around 8:30 p.m. the same coyote came out of nowhere and within seconds bit my dog,” said Goodman, who took her dog to the vet as soon as she noticed the injury.

Despite taking precautions when walking with Cody, including using a leash, carrying a whistle, flashlight, long stick, walking with other people and staying within a one-block radius of home. she did not deter the rapid attack.

Cody was lucky. After receiving an x-ray at Coral Springs Animal Hospital, he did not need stitches and is recovering at home.

She filed a report with the Sheriff of Broward‘s Office and Florida Fish and Wildlife, who said there was little they could do.

Since coyotes are not a protected species in Florida, people can trap or kill them, but must follow state hunting and firearms regulations.

Attacks on humans are rare, but there are some safety tips to avoid conflict with a coyote when needed. The most common rule of thumb is to not feed them and prevent access to any food by securing all thrash.

Also, don’t leave pets unsupervised and unsafe outside, and keep small animals in a fenced area with motion detectors to deter predators.

Cody is recovering at home. {courtesy Mary Goodman}

Goodman urges residents to use caution when walking their pets.

“I know he was after my dog, not me, but if you’re a walker or dog lover, be careful. Police said there was nothing they could do unless the coyotes attacked a human.

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Author profile

Sherry Nabbie-Singh

Self-published author and professional makeup artist residing in Tamarac since 2011. Originally from Trinidad, Sherry graduated from the University of the West Indies with a Bachelor of Arts in Literature in English.