A Kitchener family is hoping their beloved dog, Stella, will pull through and survive a vicious coyote attack.

Danielle Jaworski's five pound Yorkie Chihuahua was attacked early Friday morning in Doon South area, just steps from her front porch.

Jaworski's husband crossed paths with the coyote. The animal eventually let go of Stella and was chased away by Danielle's husband.

There have been several coyote sightings this winter in the Doon South area.