Advisory Issued to Residents in the Great Falls Area: Be Alert for Potentially Rabid Coyote
Residents in the Great Falls area (in and around neighborhoods including Utterback Store Road and Streamview Court) should be aware that a coyote engaged in several unprovoked attacks on domestic dogs, and one on a resident, during daylight hours of Thursday, June 18. Despite an extensive search, the animal was not found, and rabies cannot be ruled out as a reason for the attacks.
Per the Department of Wildlife Resources, if you see a coyote, stay calm, keep your distance, and do not run. Back away promptly but calmly, giving it space. If the coyote approaches you or is near your home, remember to do the following:
- Yell and wave your arms
- Use a noisemaker like a whistle or air horn
- Toss small objects like sticks or rocks toward it
- Spray with water if available
Anyone who may have touched or been bitten or scratched by any wild animal should call the Fairfax County Health Department Rabies Program at 703-246-2433, TTY 711.
If you suspect your pet may have come into contact with any wild animals, please contact the Fairfax County Department of Animal Services at 703-691-2131, TTY 711.
Residents can help protect themselves and their pets from rabies. Stay away from wild animals. Do not allow pets to roam unattended and keep pets leashed. Be sure pets are vaccinated against rabies annually.
For additional information on rabies, please visit https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/rabies.
For additional information on coyotes, please visit Fairfax County's Coyote and Pet Safety guide or Virginia DWR's Problems with Coyotes webpage.