One Dog Killed, Another Pet Injured by Mountain Lions In Wood River Valley
KETCHUM, Idaho (KLIX)-One dog was killed and another attacked by mountain lions in the Wood River Valley during the weekend in separate incidents.
The fist happened on Sunday evening in the Gimlet area south of Ketchum when a cougar went into a fenced yard and killed a pudelpointer, according to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Conservation officers have gotten permission form the owner to trap the lion in the area; officials say the big cats will often return to an area they've made a kill in.
Once captured the lion will be euthanized for the safety of people and their pets. Fish and Game said in a statement that, "Decisions regarding what to do with wildlife involved in conflict situations are determined on a case-by-case basis. Each situation is unique. Once the facts are known and evaluated, a decision is then made about the required course of action."
An Australian shepherd was attacked Saturday evening in west of Ketchum in a separate attack on a porch of a home. Officials say the owner was able to stop the attack and the lion left the area, the dog is being cared for at an area veterinarian. Fish and Game said the encounter was by chance and it has no plans to capture the lion involved.
Fish and Game provided these tips for people if they ever encounter a mountain lion:
- Stay calm. Either hold your ground or back away slowly. Do not turn your back on the lion.
- Do NOT run. Running may stimulate its natural instinct to chase.
- Do not approach a lion, especially one that is feeding or has kittens.
- Never crouch down or bend over. Make yourself appear as big as possible. Aggressively wave your arms.
- Make loud sounds that do not sound like those made by prey