Coyotes attack dogs on American River Parkway | Security increase

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Pet owners are asked to be aware after a pair of reported coyote attacks involving dogs around Paradise Beach along the American River Parkway in Sacramento.

The advisory was issued this week by Sacramento County Regional Parks.

“We wanted to let people know there were coyotes in the area and advise them to keep their pets on a leash,” said Ken Casparis, spokesperson for Sacramento County Regional Parks.

Casparis says authorities are still investigating if the attacks were by the same coyote. 

In the meantime, new signs went up at Paradise Beach this week to let visitors know that coyotes have been spotted in the area. Rangers have also increased patrols in the area.

Visitors at the parkway welcome the signs.

“First, they are a little bit scary, but I am not too worried. I got three dogs with me, one of them is a coyote hunter,” said Daniel West, who was walking his dogs.

The forestry environment of the parkway houses many types of wildlife, including coyotes. Casparis says while human encounters are rare, the situation is different with pets.

“One of the attacks that happened, the pet was running free in the parkway, which is a violation of county ordinance. We do require all pets to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet long,” said Casparis.

The county says if there is an active coyote attack, call 911. To report non-emergency incidents in the American River Parkway, call Ranger dispatch at (916) 875-7275.

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