SADDLE RIVER-- Police issued an alert after approximately five coyotes circled a person out walking a dog Thursday.
The incident occurred on Oak Road, where the band came within six feet of the person and tried to snatch the dog, police said. A passing motorist honked and then left the vehicle to help scare the animals off.
The state Division of Fish and Wildlife and TYCO Animal Control have both been notified, police said.
Police are advising residents to keep small pets indoors and to make sure young children are not left unsupervised. Anyone walking dogs, jogging or engaging in other outdoor activity are being asked to carry an air horn or walking stick to use in any encounters with the animals.
More information on coyotes can be found at the Division of Fish and Wildlife website.
Any contacts with coyotes should also be reported to police by calling 201-327-5300.
Paul Milo may be reached at pmilo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@PaulMilo2. Find NJ.com on Facebook.