Colorado bear removes dog from caampsite

[Emily]

http://www.kjct8.com/Global/story.asp?S ... =menu580_1

Bear attack on Uncompahgre Plateau kills dog

Posted: Aug 28, 2008 12:51 AM

Updated: Aug 28, 2008 01:32 AM
Bear attack on Uncompahgre Plateau kills dog

BY SARA GOLDENBERG
SGOLDENBERG@KJCT8.COM

One family had an unwelcome guest visit them on their camping trip Wednesday.

The Division of Wildlife says campers reported a black bear came into their camp site and carried their dog away in its mouth.

It happened on the Uncompahgre Plateau in the Big Creek Reservoir Area near Divide Road. No one in the family was hurt-- but their dog wasn't so lucky.

The DOW wants to remind you to stay safe this holiday weekend.

"We do have some indications that there may have been some attractions in the camp, it may have prompted the bear to come into that area," said Randy Hampton from the DOW.

He recommends you don't leave trash and food behind at your camp site-- unless you want to attract some not-so friendly furry animals.

"Bears can smell the smallest quantities of things. And that may make a situation where you wake up with a bear trying to get into your tent," Hampton said.

He says as we head into the holiday weekend, thousands of Coloradans will trek into the great outdoors.

"Don't leave trash out when you're camping, try to keep it collected up, airtight containers if possible. Vehicles work well to store things in the trunk," he said.

Hampton recommends you don't cook near the tent you're sleeping in, and don't keep any food in there either. He says you need to stay aware of the environment around you.

"Attacks by bears, mountain lions, things like that in Colorado are extremely rare. They don't happen often, but you want to do whatever you can to minimize your chances of being involved in a conflict with a large animal," Hampton said.

If you come across a bear or mountain lion the first thing you want to do is make yourself look as large as possible. Making noise and throwing things can also help-- just don't bend down.

"Bottom line, if you're attacked by any animal in Colorado, fight back. Don't play dead, don't run away, you want to fight back."

If you would like to go camping this holiday weekend, there may still be some camp sites available in the area. Click on "Find It" on our homepage and then click on the "Colorado Camp Sites" link.