Saanich Police released video after a close encounter between a large dog and cougar in a rural part of Saanich today.
Police said the encounter, which was caught on camera, serves as a good reminder to be aware of these large animals.
The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m on Tuesday December 21st in a rural area of the municipality.
The homeowner was alerted to a cougar on his driveway at the south end of Bear Hill Park.
The video shows the family dog, a large Husky, charged at the cougar but was quickly recalled by his owner.
The cougar fled after the homeowner yelled at it.
The dog was not injured during the encounter.
“We share the environment with large animals such as cougars and bears so residents must take into consideration that encounters with these animals are very likely,” said Saanich Police in a media release.
An encounter with a cougar today in Saanich serves as a good reminder to be aware of these large animals, especially if you live in rural areas of the municipality, says @SaanichPolice .
Police released video showing a large husky dog charge at the cougar.
Continues below. pic.twitter.com/JRZfakUCvn
— Victoria Buzz (@victoriabuzzes) December 22, 2021
If you encounter a cougar, remember the following:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you live in rural areas.
- Keep an eye on your pets when outside or keep them on a leash when possible.
- Limit food sources such as garbage, food scraps or compost outside that may be
attractants. - Call the BC Conservation Officer Service if a cougar is seen in an urban area, if it cannot
be easily scared off, or if the animal is near an urban park or school during the day.
