Parks Canada warns wolves are targeting dogs on popular Vancouver Island beach

Parks Canada is urging visitors to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to leave their dogs at home.

This comes after two recent incidents where wolves have been acting more aggressively along Long Beach near Tofino.

In one case, two wolves ran straight at a visitor who was walking their leashed dog, following them closely for quite a while.

In another instance, two wolves approached someone walking on the beach and actually pushed them into the water.

Officials are concerned because these events indicate a troubling trend of habituation, meaning the wolves are losing their natural fear of people. They worry that the wolves might be starting to see dogs as potential prey, even larger breeds that are on leashes.

“The wolf in area warning remains in effect for the entire Long Beach Unit,” Parks Canada said in a statement. “One interaction indicates that the wolves have increased their boldness in attempt to prey on dogs, including large, leashed dogs.”

Parks Canada says dogs are a key attractant for wolves, which view them as either prey or competition. That’s why it’s urging both locals and visitors to avoid bringing dogs to beaches or trails within the park.

Other safety measures include keeping children close, carrying accessible bear spray, travelling in groups, and staying alert for signs such as tracks or droppings.

If a wolf is encountered, Parks Canada advises not to run or crouch, to back away slowly while maintaining eye contact, and to make yourself look large by yelling and waving your arms.

If a wolf approaches, throw sticks and stones, and use bear spray if necessary.

Coastal wolves are a protected and iconic part of the west coast ecosystem, but increasing contact with humans can quickly turn dangerous  for both people and the animals themselves.

Once a wolf becomes food-conditioned or habituated to people, it often must be relocated or destroyed.

“Visitors and locals have an important role to play,” the agency said. “We ask everyone to respect warnings, closures, and restrictions to help keep people, pets, and wildlife safe.”

Anyone who sees a wolf in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is asked to report it immediately to Parks Canada Emergency Dispatch at 1-877-852-3100 or 250-726-3604.