Charges have been laid against hikers who, along with their off-leash dog, encountered a grizzly bear in Banff National Park, officials said. Video of the encounter was posted to social media. The video features at least two people—one visible on camera, the other holding it—backing up along a trail as a grizzly bear follows closely after them. A small, unleashed dog runs back and forth between them, at times barking at the bear. The person visible on camera, closer to the bear, shouts at the animal. The person holding the camera repeatedly calls for the dog. The video is about a minute and a half long and ends with the hikers still backing away from the bear. Parks Canada said wardens have “identified the individuals involved and laid charges.” Parks Canada said the charges are for “having an off-leash dog under section five of the National Parks of Canada Domestic Animal Regulations.” Having pets off leash in national parks puts pets, their owners and wildlife at risk, Parks Canada said. “Bears and other wildlife may react aggressively toward dogs they view as threats, resulting in their injury or death,” Parks Canada said. “Off-leash dogs can also cause wildlife stress, leading to them avoiding important habitat and sources of food.” Information on bears and bear safety is available online here. Important bulletins for the area are also available online here.
