Couple attacked by bear that got into their home when they let the dog out

A late-night attack by a bear left two people with non-life-threatening injuries late Tuesday night in Nipigon, Ont. (File)

A late-night attack by a bear left two people with non-life-threatening injuries late Tuesday night in Nipigon, Ont.

Ontario Provincial Police said the bear came in when the residents opened their back door to let their dog outside.

“A bear entered the home and attacked both individuals,” police said in a news release Wednesday.

“The couple was able to retreat to a bedroom, where they barricaded themselves and called emergency services.”

Officers arrived a short time later and found the bear in the basement, where it was “being contained by the family dog,” the OPP said.

Multiple bites and scratches

“Officers safely removed the homeowners from the residence, and they were transported to hospital for treatment. The bear was dispatched without further incident to ensure public safety.”

OPP spokesperson Kim Rodak said that the attack appeared to have happened the second the couple opened the door.

“While the injuries are not life-threatening, both individuals sustained multiple lacerations and bite wounds,” Rodak said in an email.

“The residents are expected to be released from hospital soon. At this time, no further information regarding the bear is available.”

While these types of incidents are rare, police said that reports of encounters and sightings of bears are becoming more frequent this fall.

A recent case in Sault Ste. Marie saw two women attacked and injured by a bear. But in that case, the women were walking their dogs, and the bear was acting to protect her cubs.

“Residents are encouraged to stay ‘Bear Wise’ by visiting ontario.ca/bearwise for tips and information,” police said.

For emergencies where a bear poses an immediate threat to public safety, call 911. For non-emergency bear encounters, call the toll-free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327.