Mountain lion takes Declan the shih tzu near Verdugo Mountains

A Glendale resident reports a mountain lion grabbed her five-and-a-half-year-old shih tzu, Declan, outside her home and carried the dog into nearby hills; wildlife officials have urged caution in foothill neighborhoods, including avoiding nighttime walks and keeping pets leashed.

A Glendale resident says a mountain lion grabbed her small shih tzu, Declan, outside her home in the foothills near the Verdugo Mountains late at night. The owner, Laura McVay, reported she was bringing the five-and-a-half-year-old dog inside around 11:30 p.m. when the animal lunged and carried the dog into nearby hills. McVay described the encounter as overwhelming and later spoke to the Los Angeles Times about the loss. Wildlife officials have reminded residents in foothill communities to be vigilant. Known details: - The owner, Laura McVay, said a mountain lion grabbed her five-and-a-half-year-old shih tzu, Declan, at about 11:30 p.m. outside her Glendale foothills home near the Verdugo Mountains. - McVay said she tried to pull on the leash and make noise but the animal carried the dog into nearby hills. - Wildlife officials advised avoiding walking pets at night, keeping animals leashed and remaining vigilant in foothill communities. - The article did not report any official recovery of the dog or specific management actions; next procedural steps are undetermined at this time. Summary: The incident resulted in the loss of a family pet and has raised concern in the local community. Wildlife officials have urged caution in foothill neighborhoods, including avoiding nighttime walks and keeping pets leashed. Undetermined at this time.