A woman and her dog were both attacked by a cougar last weekend while they were walking around Landslide Lake within Strathcona Provincial Park on Vancouver Island.
On Saturday, June 8th, two women were walking their dogs off-leash near Landslide Lake when one of the dogs was attacked.
According to the Ministry of Environment, the dog’s owner also suffered injuries from the cougar after her dog was attacked.
The two women were able to fend off the animal by using bear spray they had brought with them and after the cougar had left the area, a helicopter came to airlift both women and dogs out.
A witness to the incident told Victoria Buzz that they were around 80 metres ahead of the two women and dogs.
They added that the woman who was bitten suffered four puncture wounds.
The Ministry of Environment says that her wounds are considered to be non-life threatening and that her dog is also expected to make a full recovery.
Related:
The BC Conservation Officer Service conducted an investigation following this incident and determined that the cougar attacked defensively, so no further action will be taken to relocate or euthanize the animal.
Prior to the attack, BC Parks had posted signage in the area warning those enjoying the park that cougar sightings and activity had been taking place.
Since the attack, BC Parks has closed the Elk River Trail and added additional signage.
Click here for tips on what to do should you encounter a cougar.
