Protect small pets from coyotes

I am writing in response to the letter from the woman who lost her dog to a coyote last week. I know the loss of a pet can be devastating to a family, and this letter certainly does not mean to take away from the hurt of that loss, but I felt that she unfairly put the blame on Animal Control and the wildlife.

As someone who has rescued many animals, I can say I have been properly educated from shelter staff about the issue of coyotes and pets in this area. We continue to build homes in their habitat. We bring small animals into enclosed spaces, and for some reason we are surprised that these two situations cause problems. That is just not being responsible.

Small dogs and cats have been at risk for becoming coyote food for a very long time, and it is the responsibility of the animal owner and no one else to protect their animal by giving them a safe enclosure or keeping them inside the home when no one is around.

I found it very difficult to read this woman's letter blaming Animal Control for not coming out to do anything about the coyote when it was her responsibility to keep that animal safe. I also found issue with her saying that our children are not safe playing in their yards because of coyotes--that couldn't be further from the truth.

Humans are the biggest threat to our surrounding wildlife, and it is scary to think that someone would honestly believe that because she bought a home in a certain place that all wildlife should cease to exist in that area, when in fact many species are threatened and struggling to survive because of loss of habitat. I just want to stand up for those responsible pet owners who believe that we can coexist peacefully with wildlife.
M. Smith
Calabasas