A woman was attacked by a bear on a trail in British Columbia after an off-leash dog chased a cub, according to local authorities. The incident occurred at the Shuswap Memorial Cemetery Trails, as reported by Castanet News.
Details of the attack
The woman was hiking when an off-leash dog pursued a bear cub, prompting the mother bear to defend her young. The bear then turned on the woman, causing injuries. She was treated at the scene and later hospitalized. The extent of her injuries has not been disclosed.
Conservation officers responded to the incident and are investigating. They emphasized the importance of keeping dogs on leash in bear country to prevent such encounters. "This is a stark reminder that off-leash dogs can trigger defensive behavior in bears," said a spokesperson for the BC Conservation Officer Service.
Safety recommendations
Authorities advise hikers to carry bear spray, make noise on trails, and avoid surprising wildlife. Dogs should always be leashed in areas where bears are known to be active. The attack highlights the risks of human-wildlife conflict, especially during summer months when bears are more active.
Local officials are urging the public to respect wildlife and follow safety guidelines to reduce the likelihood of future attacks. The trail has been temporarily closed while the investigation continues.
