Hikers with dogs need to take leashes

Wildsafe BC is cautioning hikers with dogs following reports of a Greenwood woman being mauled by a small black bear while hiking in the Okanagan last weekend.

She sustained non-life threatening injuries and details indicate the animal was chasing a dog.

Selkirk-Purcell Region Community Coordinator for the Trish Drinkle says if you notice signs of a bear, put your pet on leash.

Drinkle says the dog then runs back to the owner bringing the bear with it.

Wildsafe BC recommends always carrying easily accessible bear spray when hiking.