Part of the reason why we love dogs is their often loyal nature, but some really go the extra mile.
One dog parent has credited her Jack Russell Terrier with saving her life after a dangerous encounter with a black bear while taking her two dogs – the Jack Russell and a Labradoodle – for a walk in the town of Stafford in Vermont.
Susan Lee was walking her dogs along a trail on her property on August 20th and heard a sudden noise. She realized that a mother black bear was charging at her from the woods nearby. But then, she tripped on a stone wall.
Her Jack Russell Came to the Rescue
As the bear caught up to her, her leg started to hurt. She realized that the bear had bitten her. According to officials from the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, “Ms. Lee stated that her Jack Russell Terrier intervened by barking at the bear, which got off her and appeared to focus on the dog”.
The dog was able to distract the bear enough for it to turn away in the opposite direction. Lee was able to get up and get back home with her Jack Russell, while her Labradoodle had already run away.
Once at home, Lee called an ambulance and received some help from a neighbor. Medical professionals then treated her injuries at hospital.
Encountering Wild Animals on a Walk
‘Bear attacks are extremely rare in Vermont,’ said Fish and Wildlife Department Bear Biologist Jaclyn Comeau.
However, if you do come across a wild animal while walking your dog, there are things to remember to minimize serious risk.
“If confronted by a bear it is essential to remain calm and back away slowly, and to fight back immediately if attacked,” said Comeau. Carrying a weapon or repellent can also help, as can making noise or putting bells on your dog’s collar to make your presence known.
If in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention for yourself or your dog. It’s best to consider safety, and your health, first.
