(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — A devastating event in Thousand Oaks serves as a sobering reminder for Simi Valley pet owners: coyotes are closer than we think, and their presence can be deadly.
For one Thousand Oaks woman, the danger became all too real. Although she had heard about coyote sightings in the neighborhood, two months had gone by without any incidents, and she felt confident the yard was safe. That sense of security vanished when a neighbor knocked on her door to report a recent coyote sighting nearby. Just two days later, her fears turned into a devastating reality.
The woman’s dog, Molly, was let outside as usual, with her owner close by. As Molly wandered near a shed in the yard, a sudden, desperate yelp broke the silence. Rushing toward the sound, the woman found a coyote gripping Molly in its jaws. Startled, the coyote dropped her, but the harm was already done. Molly attempted to crawl back, but her hind legs hung limp and lifeless.
She was rushed to the vet, but her injuries were severe—spinal trauma, deep puncture wounds, and internal bleeding. Despite every effort, Molly didn’t survive.
“We don’t live near hills or fields—we’re in the middle of a residential neighborhood,” the woman shared. “I thought we were safe. I thought being outside with her was enough. But coyotes are fast and quiet, and it only takes a second. I hope no one else has to experience what we went through. If you see a coyote, don’t ignore it. Call animal control right away.”
This heartbreaking story is a wake-up call for Simi Valley residents. With coyotes especially active in our area during the January to March mating season, it’s critical to stay alert and take action now to protect your pets.
Given the unique geography and terrain of Simi Valley, including its proximity to open spaces, hillsides, and greenbelts, coyotes are a persistent presence.
Here are six essential steps residents can take keep our furry friends safe:
- Keep pets indoors or in secure enclosures. With many Simi Valley homes backing up to open areas or wash zones, it’s crucial to keep pets indoors or in a coyote-proof enclosure, especially at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active. Regular fences are no match for coyotes, which can jump six feet or higher.
- Always use a leash. When walking your pet along our numerous trails, parks, or residential streets, keep them on a leash. This will prevent them from straying into brushy or hidden areas where coyotes might be lurking.
- Avoid coyote-prone areas. Parks, golf courses, and hiking trails—such as those in the Santa Susana Mountains and near Corriganville Park—are common coyote habitats. Be especially cautious during mating season from late January through early March.
- Eliminate food sources. Coyotes are opportunistic feeders and are drawn to easy meals. Remove fallen fruit, keep bird feeders off the ground, and never leave pet food or water outside.
- Secure trash cans. With many Simi Valley neighborhoods bordering wildlife areas, securing trash cans is critical. Use heavy lids or store trash bins in garages or sheds until collection day to avoid attracting coyotes.
- Stay vigilant and prepared. Always supervise pets when they’re outdoors, even in fenced yards. Be ready to scare off coyotes by making loud noises, throwing objects, or spraying them with a garden hose. If your home borders open spaces or undeveloped land, consider installing motion-activated lights or coyote rollers on fences for added protection.
Coyotes are a natural part of Simi Valley’s ecosystem, but their growing presence in residential neighborhoods has become a real concern for pet owners. If you see a coyote in your neighborhood, take it seriously—report the sighting to animal control and let your neighbors know.
By staying alert and taking simple precautions, we can prevent heartbreaking realities like the one described above. Let’s work together to keep Simi Valley safe for the most vulnerable members of our community.
