The District of Tofino is warning people to protect their pets after a dog was killed in a possible wolf attack at a nearby beach.
“In an effort to prevent similar attacks, the public is being asked to keep all dogs on leash, keep pets in at night, and do not let dogs loose,” the district said in a statement on its Facebook site.
The district said the dog was killed near the middle entrance to Chesterman Beach early Saturday.
“All indications are that it was killed by wolves.”
The district said warning signs are being posted at beach entrances and Tofino Mayor Josie Osborne asked people to spread the word.
“Sadly, I have personal experience with the devastating experience of losing a beloved dog this way,” she said in a statement posted on Twitter.
“I urge all dog owners to follow these guidelines and rules — especially not letting your dog out loose in the wee hours of the morning.”
Saanich police, meanwhile, issued a warning about a possible black bear sighting in the region.
The department said an out-of-town visitor encountered the bear in a green belt near Hector Road about 6 p.m. Saturday. The animal was not aggressive, but police advised people to remain vigilant.
“This time of year bears will be active, especially in areas where fresh fruit and berries are readily available,” the department said.
“Bears have an extremely good sense of smell and can detect food from over a kilometer away.”
Police recommended people carry noise makers, keep animal foods indoors, harvest ripe berries and vegetables, and remove any fallen fruit from the ground.
