Suspected cougar attacks near Bragg Creek prompt pet warnings

Fish and Wildlife officials are reminding residents near Bragg Creek, Alta., that cougars see domestic cats and dogs as easy prey, and that measures should be taken to protect them.

On October 21, a dog was reported killed at Mountain Lion Place, near Bragg Creek, about 50 kilometers west of Calgary.

On October 25, a second report was received by Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services (FWES) the night before.

FWES is aware of four other dogs reported to have been killed by a cougar in the area this year, but are unable to confirm this information.

A FWES officer set traps in an attempt to catch the cougar, but the traps were removed after the cougar did not return to the area. Officials said they continue to monitor the situation closely.

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Cougar warnings issued throughout the Bow Valley, including Cochrane

Fish and Wildlife officials recommend that owners who live in cougar territory keep their cats indoors and bring dogs out at night. Any dog ​​left outside unattended must be kept in a secure kennel that is covered on top.

FWES said that while cougar encounters are rare, precautions should be taken if you encounter a cougar:

• Bring bear spray. Be prepared to use it to defend yourself if a puma approaches within 12 meters (40 feet – equivalent to the length of a bus).
• Keep the children close. Never let them play outside unsupervised, near wooded areas or at dusk or dawn.
• Always walk your dog on a leash.
• If you see a cougar in the distance, don’t run or turn your back.
• If the cougar is unaware of your presence, gather children and pets nearby, slowly and carefully move away and leave the area.
• If a cougar is hissing and snarling or watching you intently and tracking your movements, don’t run, and don’t play dead.
• Make yourself look big and speak loud.
• If the cougar makes contact, fight and don’t give up. Use all the means at your disposal.
• If you encounter a cougar or other wildlife that may be a public safety concern, we ask that people report the incident to the 24-hour Report A Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800.

More information may be available found online.

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