Muskoka Outdoors recommends that you take the advice of Jolanta Kowalski, from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resouces,
We do not recommend that people jump on bears to try to fight a bear off somebody’s dog,…
This comment follows the fascinating story about Mr. Tilley, and his Pit Bull. While hiking along a wilderness trail the two travellers crossed paths with an agressive bear. The Pit Bull intervened while Mr. Tilley jumped on the bear’s back and killed the bear with his knife. You have to read this story from the Globe and Mail.
I am glad both dog and owner are recovering, but I am envious of Mr. Tilley because I don’t know if I would have acted the same way. My reaction would have depended on my proximity to my firearm or panzer tank. If none of those were present I would have to admit that I would probably make a hasty retreat.
I think one of the major knife manufacturers should send Mr. Tilley a new knife as this would make a great PR gesture on their part. If they do not, feel free to call me, Mr. Tilley, and I will send you a Muskoka Outdoors T-shirt and a medal of courage.
In case you our visitors are wondering what to do if they encounter a bear…try this:
Face the bear. Do not run. If you are with others, stay together. Make sure the bear has a clear escape route, then yell and wave your arms to make yourself look bigger. Use a whistle or air horn, if you have one. The idea is to be aggressive and persuade the bear to leave. This will work if it is afraid of humans. If these attempts fail to frighten the bear, slowly back away while giving the bear a wide berth. Climbing a tree to get away may offer little protection, as black bears are excellent climbers. A bear may stand upright, swat or beat the ground with its forepaws or even bluff charge — a way of saying you are too close. Back off and give the bear more space. If the bear comes within range, use pepper spray if you have it.
Source: Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
Bill Anderson
Muskoka Outdoors
