Wildlife Sightings on the Rise in ...(ave small children or pets outside unatt...),Health

-- Don't feed wildlife. It is illegal in California to feed deer, which

attracts mountain lions.

-- Avoid landscaping with plants that deer like to eat.

-- Bring pet food inside to avoid attracting raccoons or opossums, which

are mountain lion prey.

-- Do not approach a wild animal or run away from one. Do scream or fight

back if an animal attacks.

-- Dispose of garbage in sealed cans.

-- Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.

-- Don't try to heal sick animals. Call a local veterinarian, the

California Department of Fish and Game or animal control for help.

-- Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals.

According to the USDA Wildlife Services, the California Department of Fish and Game and other expert wildlife sources:

-- Coyote attacks on humans and pets have increased year after year.

There were 48 attacks on children and adults from 1998 through 2003

compared to 41 attacks during the period of 1988 through 1997.

-- About five to seven mountain lions exist in California per 100 square

miles.

Despite the increased number of wildlife and wildlife attacks being reported in encroaching hillside communities, the CVMA emphasizes that wild animal attacks on humans are rare. By following the tips above and using common sense, homeowners' fears could be eased and wildlife encounters kept to a minimum. This will avoid further human tragedy and the destruction of precious wildlife that wander into human territory.

For media interviews with a California veterinarian regarding this issue, please contact Phil Boerner at the CVMA: 916-649-0599. To access past CVMA press releases, visit the CVMA Media Center in the News Room at http://www.cvma.net.

The California Veterinary Medical Association is the largest state v
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