Irvington dog survives violent coyote attack as officials issue warning
Becky, a rescue dog, was attacked on Friday in the backyard of her home on Lewis Road in Irvington.
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A 5-year-old rescue dog is recovering after surviving a violent coyote attack in Irvington, as officials warn residents to remain vigilant during coyote pupping season.
Becky, a rescue dog, was attacked on Friday in the backyard of her home on Lewis Road in Irvington. Her owner, Erin Hally Reddy, said she desperately tried to save her pet by screaming and throwing rocks at the coyote until it finally released the dog.
"I cannot believe that after she went through what she went through, she's actually alive," Hally Reddy said. "It was shaking its head and trying to break her neck, and it was pretty gruesome to watch. I think I just annoyed it enough and scared it enough."
The attack comes amid several confirmed coyote sightings in both Irvington and Hastings-on-Hudson.
The Hastings Police Department recently issued a warning reminding residents that increased coyote activity is common this time of year during pupping season, when adult coyotes hunt more frequently to feed their young.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation advises anyone who encounters a coyote to "act like a predator, not prey." Officials recommend making loud noises, raising your arms to appear larger and maintaining an aggressive posture until the animal backs away.
While coyote encounters remain relatively uncommon, officials encourage residents to supervise pets outdoors, avoid feeding wildlife and report any aggressive animal behavior to local authorities.
For Hally Reddy, the frightening experience serves as a reminder of how quickly wildlife encounters can become dangerous.
Despite the traumatic attack, Becky survived and is continuing her recovery.
