Bear attacks woman walking dog on rural Pemberton, B.C., property

A stock photo of a Black Bear. (Photo by Chen Te/Pexels)

A black bear attack that injured a woman on her rural property in Pemberton, B.C., Tuesday was “defensive in nature,” according to conservation officers.

The victim was walking her dog off-leash through an area of tall grass when the bear attacked her around 7 a.m., the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said in a social media post.

“The bear bit and scratched the woman before it disengaged,” the BCCOS wrote.

“The woman received medical treatment for non-life threatening injuries. The dog was not injured.”

Officers investigated the circumstances surrounding the attack are determined the bear was likely startled by the woman and her dog.

The BCCOS noted there have been no recent reports of aggressive bears near the victim’s Collins Road property.

“Based on the defensive nature of the attack and rural location adjacent to a forested area, there are no efforts being taken to capture or dispatch the bear at this time,” the BCCOS added.

To avoid confrontations with bears and other wildlife while walking or hiking, authorities recommend making noise, staying alert to one’s surroundings, and keeping pets leashed.

“People are also encouraged to ensure attractants, such as garbage, pet food and birdseed, are securely stored, to prevent bears and other wildlife from accessing them,” the BCCOS wrote .

Concerning interactions with bears can be reported to the Report All Poachers and Polluters hotline at 1-877-952-7277.