Reported raccoon attacks on pets in Bellevue illustrate the need for pet owners to take precautions. State Fish and Wildlife officials say more raccoons have been coming into urban areas in search of food after the late arrival of warm weather.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife devotes a section of its website, Living with Wildlife, to educating the public on how to coexist peacefully and safely with nearby wildlife.

First and foremost, residents are warned not to feed wildlife and to take steps to prevent animals from gaining access to garbage or pet food. Wild animals able to scavenge in yards or on porches can lose their natural fear of people.

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