(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — Coyotes are out and about for mating season, and they may be more visible while they are looking for mates and monitoring their territory, and it’s important to keep pets safe around them.

The Teller County Sheriff’s Office shared tips from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) on how people living in the Front Range can protect their pets:

Keep pets on a leash when walking.

Never allow your pets to “play” with a coyote.

Pick up small pets if confronted by a coyote.

Do what you can to discourage a coyote’s approach – yell, stomp your feet, throw small rocks or sticks at it.

Always supervise your pet when outside, especially at dawn and dusk.

Never leave cats or dogs outside after dark.

Don’t leave food or water outside for pets.

If you must leave your pet outside, secure it in a fully enclosed kennel.

Keep your pets up to date on vaccinations.

According to CPW, all Front Range communities are home to coyotes and they have easily adapted to our food and habitat-rich environments, so taking some easy precautions can prevent the heartbreak of pets being harmed.