Bear attack on woman walking dog off-leash was defensive in nature: BCCOS

No efforts will be made to capture a bear that attacked a woman in Pemberton this morning.

In a social media post, the BC Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) says the attack was deemed to have been defensive in nature and happened in a rural location next to a forested area.

According to the BCCOS, the interaction between the woman walking her dog and black bear happened shortly after 7 am.

“The woman was walking with her off-leash dog in an area of tall grass on her rural Collins Road property when she came upon a bear,” the BCCOS explained.

“The bear bit and scratched the woman before it disengaged. The woman received medical treatment for non-life threatening injuries. The dog was not injured.”

Conservation officers responded to the site and investigated the attack, which included an interview with the victim and assessment of the area.

They were unable to locate the bear and came to the determination that the attack was defensive in nature.

“The bear was likely startled by the pair in a surprise encounter in tall grass and brush,” the BCCOS post added. “There were no reports of aggressive bear behaviour in the area prior to the attack.”

The BCCOS encourages the public to take precautions in case of wildlife encounters.

Making noise, being aware of your surroundings and leashing up pets are all suggested while walking in wilderness areas.