KIRKLAND, Wash. — The Kirkland Police Department is asking pet owners to keep a watchful eye on their animals, after a series of cougar and coyote sightings in the city.
The department posted the warning on Friday, urging owners to supervise their pets while they are outdoors, keep them leashed while on walks, and make sure their pet licenses and vaccines are up to date.
If you encounter a cougar or coyote, the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife says do not run. Instead, stand your ground. Wildlife officials say to make yourself appear large by waving your arms, yelling loudly, and backing away slowly while maintaining eye contact. If the animal seems aggressive, fight back with whatever you have available, like rocks or sticks, and try to scare it off…