Mountain lion snatches dog just 'feet away' from his Glendale home - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Andrew J. CampaFebruary 26, 2026
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A Glendale nurse practitioner, Laura McVay, shared her harrowing experience after a mountain lion attacked her beloved shih tzu, Declan, just feet outside her home. The incident occurred as McVay was walking Declan for his evening stroll. When she felt a sudden pull and heard a "whoosh," she turned to see the mountain lion's jaws closing around her dog. Despite her efforts to yell and appear larger, the predator swiftly dragged Declan into the nearby foothills.
McVay described her shock and grief, calling Declan a cherished pet who brought joy to everyone around him. She filed an attack report with California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife, which confirmed the incident as likely involving a mountain lion. The department noted that the Verdugo Mountains are known for hosting robust wildlife, including bears, coyotes, and mountain lions. With mule deer, their primary prey, becoming less available, mountain lions may turn to smaller animals or even domestic pets.
This incident serves as a critical reminder for residents to take precautions when walking their pets, especially during dawn, dusk, or night hours. Authorities advise keeping pets leashed, avoiding crouching or bending over, and making loud noises to deter potential threats. McVay herself reflected on the importance of being prepared with tools like sticks or weapons, emphasizing that
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/26/2026