WARNING: This story contains graphic details
The B.C. SPCA is urging pet owners to keep their dogs on leash when in heavily forested areas after a dog had a particularly nasty encounter with a bruin.
According to the animal welfare agency, the dog, now named Rocky, was transferred to Vancouver from northern B.C. to undergo “desperately needed” treatment after he was mauled by a bear and suffered injuries to the right side of his neck.
When he arrived it had been evident from his injuries and his thick, weathered coat that he had endured a tough, neglected, life outdoors, said the release.
“Rocky came into the B.C. SPCA’s care with an enormous, dreadful wound on his neck that was badly infected because of a lack of veterinary care,” said Mandy Isaacs, assistant manager of the Vancouver animal centre.
Rocky was sedated and the large, gaping wound on his neck was cleaned and treated, with the damaged tissue removed. During treatment, veterinary staff conducted X-rays that revealed an old jaw fracture that had begun healing on its own.
Rocky suffered a large wound to the right hand side of his neck after enduring a bear attack. (Courtesy: B.C. SPCA)
The dog was still in recovery mode when he was scooped up by a foster parent looking to give him a safe and comfortable new home.
“When I first met him, he was sitting in the reception area of the animal centre because he was still recovering from his wound,” said new owner Sarah.
“I sat down with him and petted him, gave him a few treats, and we just had this instant connection. I had to bring him home.”
According to the B.C. SPCA, Rocky confidently jumped into the backseat of Sarah’s car “as if he had been doing it for years,” and travelled with her to his new home – a sanctuary with a sprawling backyard.
Sarah has continued to care for Rocky’s neck wound and has been helping him return to food in light of his jaw injury, but for the most part, she says, he is settling in the home without any qualms.
“It only took him two days to be comfortable,” said Sarah, describing her rescued pup as a “lovely, superstar dog.”
“We were shocked it happened that quickly. He claimed his bed right away.”
Earlier this year Sarah and her family had lost their cattle dog, a Shar pei mix called Buddy, and the introduction of Rocky has done a great deal in helping her heal, she said.
“I missed his company desperately when I was gardening. He used to sit beside me and keep me company. I think Rocky is going to be a great little helper for me, just like Buddy was,” she says.
While Rocky’s recovery and life post-accident has been positive, the B.C. SPCA warns that this isn’t always the case and the incident should serve as a reminder of the importance of ensuring dogs are kept restrained in areas where there could be a run-in with a bear.
“If you are going hiking or walking in forested areas, keep dogs leashed, not only to keep them safe from bears but also to avoid conflicts with other wild animals” said the B.C. SPCA’s specialist in wild animal welfare, Nadia Xenakis.
“If you live in bear country, always check for visitors before letting dogs outside.”