Coyote Bit Dog During Morning Walk, Police Step Up Patrols In Rivertown Village

DOBBS FERRY, NY — A frightening interaction with a wild animal has led public safety officials to take new steps to keep residents, and pets, safe.

Dobbs Ferry is increasing patrols on Clinton Avenue after a resident walking a dog reported a coyote approached from behind Friday morning and may have bitten or nipped the dog, according to a notice from the Dobbs Ferry Police Department. The interaction was not witnessed entirely, but the village said it is treating the incident as a confirmed bite.

Under the Village of Dobbs Ferry's Coyote Operational Response Plan, the coyote has been classified as dangerous, according to the notice. The village said that designation has triggered increased patrols in the Clinton Avenue area to actively monitor for any further activity. The notice said there is no indication that the coyote is sick, but its reported behavior presents a public safety concern. Under the village's response protocols, officers are authorized to dispatch the coyote if they encounter it.

The village is asking residents to remain vigilant and report coyote activity. According to the notice, those reports help police identify areas of concern, track patterns of activity, and direct patrols where they may be needed. Residents should call 911 for an attack or immediate threat. Aggressive, bold, or unusual behavior should be reported to the Dobbs Ferry Police Department at (914) 693-5500. All other sightings should be submitted through the village's Coyote Report Form.

The village said all submitted reports are logged and mapped to help guide ongoing monitoring and response efforts. Residents, especially those in the Clinton Avenue area, are also being urged to take extra precautions with pets. Dogs should be kept leashed and close when outdoors, especially during dawn, dusk, and overnight hours. Cats should be kept indoors.

If a pet is bitten or scratched by a coyote, residents should contact their veterinarian and the Westchester County Department of Health at (914) 813-5000.