Saanich police are reminding residents to be aware of cougars after a homeowner near Bear Hill Park, north of Elk Lake, had a close encounter with a big cat on Tuesday.
The homeowner and his dog encountered a cougar on their driveway about 2:30 p.m.
The dog, a large husky, charged at the cougar but was quickly recalled by its owner. The cougar fled after the homeowner yelled at it. The dog was not injured.
Saanich police note people share the environment with large animals like cougars and bears and residents must take into consideration that encounters with these animals are very likely.
As a result, police are reminding all residents to be aware of their surroundings, especially in rural areas, to keep an eye on pets when outside and to limit food sources like garbage, food scraps and compost.
Anyone who sees a cougar in an urban area that is not easily scared off is asked to call the B.C. Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.
