Dog Viciously Attacked by Coyotes Now Sporting New Protective Vest

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Piper’s Christmas Eve Coyote Attack Leads to Inspiring Recovery

What began as a harrowing Christmas Eve in West Hartford has transformed into a story of survival, resilience, and love for Piper, a small dog who narrowly escaped death after being attacked by coyotes.

On that terrifying night, Piper was dragged across the street by a pack of coyotes while her family watched in shock. “I thought she had passed, but my wife said I could see her chest moving,” recalled her owner, Bruce Bourgoin. His sister’s quick thinking saved Piper—she scooped the injured dog into a towel and rushed her to an emergency veterinarian.

Piper endured months of medical procedures and surgeries before making a full recovery. Today, she is thriving, though her family takes extra precautions to ensure her safety. Piper now wears a custom pink protective vest that is puncture-proof and fitted with sharp neck spikes designed to deter predators from grabbing her.

Wildlife experts say incidents like this highlight the risks pets face from coyotes. Jay Kaplan, director emeritus of the Roaring Brook Nature Center, explained that coyotes in Connecticut feed on small mammals like chipmunks, rabbits, and squirrels, but they won’t hesitate to prey on cats and dogs if given the chance. Some in the region are coyote-wolf hybrids, larger and stronger than typical coyotes due to traces of wolf DNA. While not wolves, their size makes them formidable hunters.

For Piper’s family, the ordeal left a lasting impact. “She’s our first dog. So now I know what dog and cat people feel like. They become part of your family. I love that little dog,” Bourgoin said. Determined to give Piper the best life possible, they continue to let her enjoy walks and outdoor adventures, but with added vigilance and protective gear.

Community support also helped Piper’s story become one of hope. Neighbors and friends rallied behind the Bourgoins, contributing to a GoFundMe campaign that covered the steep veterinary bills. Their generosity ensured Piper received the care she needed during her long recovery.

What began as a nightmare has become a symbol of resilience. Piper’s new vest is more than just protection—it represents her will to survive, the devotion of her family, and the kindness of a community that refused to let tragedy win. Today, she struts proudly on her walks, enjoying fresh air and freedom, better prepared for whatever nature may bring.