Glenoaks Canyon Homeowners Association

Pet Safety Tips

How Much Do You Love Your Pet?

For many Canyon dwellers, our pets are much-loved members of our families, and we would be devastated to lose them. For your pets’ safety, know your canyon predators….

Protect Your Pet From Wild Animals

1)Coyotes – Coyotes were living in the canyons before humans. They hunt to feed themselves and their young in our neighborhood trash cans and park. They have been known to snatch small pets including dogs and cats. Coyotes are attracted to areas with available food, water and shelter. To deter them, remove any pet food or water dishes from your yard. Pick up fallen fruit daily, and trim large bushes. For your pets’ safety, do not leave them unattended in your canyon yards. Keep cats and small pets indoors. This is especially important at night. Feed your pets indoors. NEVER feed wild animals. It is unsafe for them, for you and for your pets. If you find an injured wild animal, call the Pasadena Humane Society (who is now handling animal control for the city of Glendale) at (626) 792-7151.

2) Wild cats – Bobcats and cougars are carnivorous, which means they hunt and eat meat. There have been numerous bobcat sightings in the canyon. Once again, the best way to protect your pet is to keep him indoors.

3) Owls – Owls are nocturnal, which means they hunt at night. They have been known to snatch small pets. Prevent this from happening by keeping your pets indoors.

4) Other cats and dogs – Pets who are allowed to roam free outdoors can get into fights with other cats and dogs. Vet bills will become a way of life if you let your pets roam. Dog fights are a horrible thing to witness and extremely expensive, not to mention potentially deadly, for any parties involved. In addition, certain dogs can be aggressive toward cats. To protect yourself and your pets, again, please keep them indoors or in a securely fenced area. (Make sure your fence is locked. Put a rock up against it if need be.) Make sure your gardeners know you have pets so they lock the gate when they leave. If your dog gets out of your back yard, for whatever reason, you can be held legally responsible for the damage he does. Be a responsible pet owner and Canyon dweller, and keep your pets indoors and off the streets. When you walk your dogs, always walk them on leash. Keep ID tags on all pets. In the event that they do get out, an ID tag will show that they are members of your family. If you know you have an aggressive dog, be especially vigilant when walking your dog.

Other Dangers

Speeding cars – Yes, cars can be thought of as predators, too. Cars race up and down the canyon, even though police patrol the area. An animal does not stand a chance against a speeding vehicle. For your pets’ safety, keep your cats indoors and your dogs in a fenced yard.
Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry. It is the responsible thing to do (not to mention common courtesy to your neighbors!) to keep your pets indoors. For your pets’ safety, do not let them roam free in the canyon! Keep pet food indoors, and your trash secured safely in the provided bins. Never walk your dog without a leash, and always keep ID tags on all pets. Your pet will thank you!