Critter tails Dog’s story a cautionary tale

LITTLE POOCH WITH A BIG PERSONALITY—Tutu the Maltese was killed by a coyote in broad daylight recently. Residents are reminded to take extra care with pets. This is coyote country. Kaysie Kent of Westlake Village tells how her Maltese, Tutu, was carried off by a coyote on Fri., Nov. 18. Tutu accompanied Kent as she watered the plants outside her house shortly after the wildfires, as she always did when Kent gardened. As Kent turned away, she heard a scream and then saw Tutu being carried off by a coyote.

Kent screamed, threw rocks and ran to help her little dog, but the coyote swiftly ran just beyond reach and killed the dog. Kent could hardly believe what was happening, as it was only 3 p.m., close to the doorway of her home.

“Tutu had a short but wonderful life,” said Kent. “She was so loved and gave so much love in return. Her big personality far outweighed her size. Tutu was my little white shadow that followed me everywhere. She was so much a part of our family. . . Tutu is missed.”

Kent reminds all pet owners to be extra careful to keep pets safe.