Irvington neighbors say their quiet streets suddenly feel a lot less sleepy after a bold coyote dug under a six-foot backyard fence on Friday, attacked a family dog, and, earlier that same evening, walked right up a driveway toward a toddler. Becky, a 5-year-old rescue, survived but was left with multiple puncture wounds. Residents say the coyote was spotted again the next day, then the sightings stopped. Police canvassed the neighborhood but could not find the animal, and parents and pet owners are now thinking twice before letting kids or small dogs outside alone.
Dog owner describes 'gruesome' attack
Becky’s owner, Erin Hally Reddy, told ABC7 New York she ran into the yard and started hurling rocks and toys, doing anything she could to make the coyote let go of her dog. Reddy said Becky ended up with "16 different puncture wounds" in the struggle. The coyote had burrowed under the six-foot fence and dragged Becky down a hill before police sirens finally scared it off. Officers later went door to door and searched the area but said they were unable to locate the animal that night.
Officials issue warnings
The Hastings-on-Hudson Police Department posted a public notice saying it has received more reports of coyote activity in recent weeks, including daytime sightings. The department urged residents to keep pets leashed, avoid leaving food outdoors, and make loud noises or raise their arms to look bigger if a coyote gets too close, according to the village news page.
The Irvington Police Department also alerted neighbors that it has handled several coyote sightings and conducted neighborhood canvasses, Patch reported. Irvington police asked residents to report any aggressive animals directly to local authorities.
Rabies history raises stakes
For many in Westchester, the scare comes with extra weight. Earlier this year, a coyote that attacked people and dogs in the county tested positive for rabies in March, county officials told NBC New York. State and local officials say that kind of unusually bold behavior, where a wild animal approaches people or pets without fear, is a major red flag and needs to be reported immediately, News 12 noted.
Neighbors change routines
The encounter is already reshaping daily life on the block. One neighbor told ABC7 New York that her son moved his baseball gear inside and has stopped playing in the yard altogether. Becky, usually a backyard regular, is now sleeping in the family’s bedroom while she heals.
Animal control officers and local police say the attack is a blunt reminder to keep an eye on pets outside and to secure garbage and pet food that might attract wildlife looking for an easy meal.
How to stay safe
Officials recommend a few basic precautions: keep small pets indoors at dawn and dusk, leash dogs on walks, remove outdoor food and accessible garbage, and try to "haze" coyotes that get too close by making loud noises and making yourself appear larger. That guidance appears in the Hastings-on-Hudson police notice and in local alerts.
The CDC provides additional information on rabies prevention and what to do after an animal bite. Anyone who sees aggressive coyote behavior is urged to contact local police right away.
Becky is recovering, and veterinarians say her injuries are serious but not life-threatening, News 12 reported. Police are continuing extra patrols in the area and are asking anyone with video, photos, or recent coyote sightings to contact the Irvington or Hastings-on-Hudson police departments so local officials and state DEC staff can decide on next steps.
