ADVANCE, N.C. -- The Davie County Sheriff's Office is recommending residents in the area to be cautious with their pets and when outdoors for the next two weeks.

On their Facebook, Davie County authorities say a child was attacked Thursday on Markland Road around 6:30 p.m.

They say the young girl was followed by the coyote as she was trying to enter her home.

The victim's mother was able to stop the attack, but the child suffered minor injuries.

The animal is still on the loose, so authorities advise residents to be aware just in case the coyote has rabies.

If it does, the infection will expire within two weeks.