I'll add my two cents about coyotes. Yes, we have them in central NC. Often at night I can hear them and then I hear Annie barking. As far as I can tell though, Annie does not leave our yard at night; I hope she doesnt. I am so glad I have my pet goats fenced in; it would be difficult for a coyote to get to them. There is no way ever that I would let my two little girls outside without me. I've never seen a coyote but many people around here have. My neighbor asked me if I had a cat (Luke died) and I told him No, why? He said... if I did, I should keep it inside or coyotes would get it. Scary imo.