VIDEO: Coyote attacks dog in residential Toronto neighbourhood, owner says this is a public safety concern – NOW Toronto

In the video, the coyote can be seen quickly appearing and approaching London who then yelped. Tedesco turned around and screamed at the sight of the coyote who then scurried away. 

“To have such an encounter happen so close to home is alarming, not just for me but for the entire community. We often think of wildlife encounters as something that happens in parks or more remote areas, but this occurred right in the heart of a dense urban neighborhood, which heightens the concern,” Tedesco said in a statement to Now Toronto on Wednesday. 

Fortunately, London did not sustain any injuries because Tedesco says she was able to pull her away in time. 

“I’m incredibly grateful for that, but the experience has left me shaken. It’s a stark reminder of how vigilant we need to be, even in spaces where we’ve always felt safe,” she said.

After the incident, Tedesco says she called 311, the city’s non-emergency line, to report the attack but has yet to receive a response. 

“That lack of follow-up is troubling, especially given how serious the situation was. It raises questions about how quickly and effectively these reports are being addressed and whether enough is being done to mitigate the growing presence of coyotes in residential areas,” she shared. 

Since the incident, Tedesco says the sense of safety for her and fellow neighbours has “definitely diminished.” She adds that many residents feel uneasy, especially during early morning or evening hours when coyotes tend to be more active.

“We’ve been forced to adopt safety measures, such as carrying whistles, noise makers, and umbrellas to deter potential attacks. While these steps can offer some reassurance, they’re not a long-term solution, and it’s unsettling to think this has become our new normal,” she said. 

Tedesco adds that this is a public safety concern and the city needs to take more proactive measures to ensure both residents and pets are safe.

This incident comes after another woman and her dog had a close call with a coyote in Trinity Bellwoods Park back in August. 

CITY SAYS IT TAKES COYOTE ATTACKS SERIOUSLY 

A City of Toronto spokesperson says the city is aware of coyote sightings in Liberty Village and that it’s “likely one coyote in the area being reported on multiple times by residents.”

“City staff have spoken with a couple of people who have expressed safety concerns. Their descriptions have not included aggressive behaviours towards their dogs or humans,” the spokesperson said in an email statement to Now Toronto on Wednesday.

“While the City does its best to support wildlife in their natural habitat, if animal behaviour changes in a way that affects public safety the City will take action after assessing all the options available,” they added.

Generally, coyotes do not pose a threat to people but can be dangerous for pets who may be entering their territory, the city says. 

“Many animals in the urban environment like geese, red wing blackbirds, foxes and raccoons are like coyotes in that they may respond assertively if they perceive a danger to their young or nest/den,” the city added.  

Between Jan. 1 and Oct. 31 this year, the city received at least 202 calls regarding coyotes, compared to 180 calls in 2023, according to city data obtained by Radio-Canada. Forty-three of those calls involved attacks or bites on animals, and five involved bites or attacks on humans. 

For residents with dogs who encounter coyotes, the city advises them to pick up the dog or keep it on a short leash and move to an area with more activity. 

“It is important that residents maintain eye contact while moving away from the coyote and, if possible, make noise and be big and assertive. Coyotes are naturally timid and flee when confronted assertively. Loud noises (like fireworks) and perceived threats to their young (presence of dogs) could cause a reaction,” the spokesperson said. 

To address raising concerns about coyotes, the city recently held a community information session in Liberty Village and released a learning module for residents to learn about how to interact with the wild animals. The city also has a webpage with more information about coyotes and how to deter them.