Residents in Tiverton are keeping a closer eye on their pets these days after several coyote attacks have been reported in the area.

Several Tiverton residents have reported coyote attacks on their dogs over the last few weeks with everything from shih tzus to Doberman pinschers ending up injured...some pets even dying from their injuries. One owner told NBC 10 that his dog was surrounded by four coyotes.

According to Tiverton animal control, trapping a coyote is extremely difficult. They are on alert after the attacks, but say coyotes are very smart and cutting down on the number of injured animals is more about prevention.

So what can you do?

They say the first step is to cover your trash. Making sure garbage is not exposed so it's scent isn't attracting coyotes to your yard is key.

Also keeping pets on a leash instead of roaming alone in the yard, especially after dark. Making sure to keep backyard lights on while you are out with your pet.

Residents say there may be as many as ten coyotes in the area. An increase in population that animal control says could be due to a recent construction project that can reduce the animals' territory and food supply.

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