Animal Services has confirmed increased coyote activity in the area near NW John Jones Drive and SW Alsbury Boulevard, including a possible attack that resulted in the death of a family pet.
On Saturday, May 31, a dog was believed to have been killed by in the 1000-block of Benjamin Drive. It is unclear how the dog got out of the backyard of the residence. On Wednesday, June 4, Animal Control was notified of a coyote pup in a backyard of a home in the area. While attacks are rare, it serves as an important reminder for residents to take preventive steps to protect pets and avoid attracting wildlife.
Animal Services is currently monitoring the area and working with Texas Parks and Wildlife to assess activity and ensure proper response protocols are followed.
Residents are urged to follow these safety tips:
- Keep small pets indoors, especially overnight, and never leave pets unattended in backyards.
- Always walk dogs on a leash and keep small children and pets close.
- If you encounter a coyote, make loud noises, wave your arms, and allow the animal to leave on its own.
- Do not feed wildlife or leave out pet food, unsecured trash or fallen fruit that may attract animals.
The city of Burleson does not trap and relocate wildlife unless an animal is sick, injured or acting aggressively. Relocated coyotes often do not survive and cannot simply be released into new areas. Because of this, the city focuses on humane, proven strategies like education, removing food sources and deterrence.
If you see a coyote in your neighborhood, report it to Animal Services at 817-426-9283 or submit a report online at www.burlesontx.com/311. In an emergency, call 911.
To learn more about living safely alongside urban wildlife, visit www.burlesontx.com/coyote.
View the city's wildlife management plan.