There was a reported cougar attack on a small dog in densely populated SE Portland, OR last night. The dog is, fortunately, recovering at the vet from only a couple of slight wounds. The owners also had pet rabbits in their yard which would have been an attractant. The cougar (spotted in the general area a few days ago) is still at large. In other words, even dense urban areas may not be safe.

This is the time of year that young cougars who have just left mommy roam in search of their own territory and are apt to wander into places cougars wouldn't be expected to be. As mentioned, keep an eye on your dog and make his "visits" brief when he's out at dawn, dusk, and after dark. Maybe a floodlight in the back yard?