HAZELWOOD, Mo. (AP) - Authorities believe a coyote is to blame in the death of a family pet in suburban St. Louis.

The attack happened Sunday morning in Hazelwood. The homeowners told KMOV that they let their small dog outside for a few minutes, then found her dead in the woods behind the home. They saw a coyote fleeing from the area.

Neighbors say the attack has them concerned about their pets and children.

The Missouri Department of Conservation says coyotes are common to the area, but attacks on dogs are rare. The department says it will investigate and set traps if necessary since the incident happened in a residential area.

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