Bear attacks dog after it ‘went at’ its cubs in New Jersey backyard, police say
People in a New Jersey neighborhood are being warned to be cautious of bears.
A dog was attacked by a bear Saturday, Aug. 20, after it got too close to the bear’s cubs, the Butler Police Department said.
A dogsitter let the dog into a fenced backyard without knowing the mother bear and its cubs were already there, police said.
“Unknown to the person, a mother bear and her cubs were also in the rear yard,” police said in a news release. “Video showed the dog went at the bears and the mother bear attacked the dog.”
The video was not publicly released by the department.
Police said the attack is likely an isolated incident provoked by the dog. They said, however, everyone should be cautious around animals.
Police did not disclose the severity of the dog’s injuries.
What to do if you see a bear
Bear attacks in the U.S. are rare, according to the National Park Service. Bears in most attacks are trying to defend their food, cubs or space.
There are steps people can take to help prevent a bear encounter from becoming a bear attack.
Identify yourself: Talk calmly and slowly wave your arms. This can help the bear realize you’re a person and nonthreatening.
Stay calm: Bears usually don’t want to attack, they want to be left alone. Talk slowly and with a low voice to the bear.
Don’t scream: Screaming could trigger an attack.
Pick up small children: Don’t let kids run away from the bear. It could think they’re small prey.
Hike in groups: A group is noisier and smellier, the National Park Service said. Bears like to keep their distance from groups of people.
Make yourself look big: Move to higher ground and stand tall. Don’t make any sudden movements.
Don’t drop your bag: A bag on your back can keep a bear from accessing food, and it can provide protection.
Walk away slowly: Move sideways so you appear less threatening to the bear. This also lets you keep an eye out.
Again, don’t run: Bears will chase you, just like a dog would.
Don’t climb trees: Grizzlies and black bears can also climb.
This story was originally published August 23, 2022 at 1:07 PM with the headline "Bear attacks dog after it ‘went at’ its cubs in New Jersey backyard, police say."