A woman walking her dogs received minor injuries after a bear encounter over the weekend in a very rural area near 100 Mile House.
The Conservation Officer Service investigation concluded today that this was a defensive attack involving a sow with a cub, and no efforts to capture or kill the bear will be made.
Shortly after noon on Sept. 30, the woman was walking her two off-leash dogs in a recently logged area near her home in Forest Grove. The dogs ran ahead into the bush. When they came back out running towards the owner, a black bear was in pursuit.
The bear swatted and bit the woman before stopping its attack. The woman was able to leave the area and received medical treatment in hospital for bruising, scratches and minor puncture wounds.
Conservation Officers attended the attack site, collected evidence and interviewed the victim as part of their investigation. Warning signs have been posted in the area and nearby residents have been informed of the incident.
The COS encourages everyone to take precautions when recreating in bear country, which includes making noise, travelling in groups and carrying bear spray.
