WATCH: A Vancouver Island man says he had no choice but to a shoot a cougar that snatched his dog near Ucluelet.
Shawn Hanson describes his puppy Bailey as fast, playful and smart. But less than a week after being snatched by a cougar, she’s also a little cautious.
Back on shore from a fishing trip near Ucluelet last week, it was Bailey that became the big catch.
Hanson trailed the cat into the bush, grabbing the pup with one hand while using the other to take out its attacker.
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“I reared back and I punched the cougar in the face in order to let her go,” said Hanson.
The cougar only appeared to be dazed. Hanson said the cat “was progressing on me as if it was still hungry. It was maybe considering taking a shot at me.”
Instead, Hanson grabbed his shotgun and took his shot, killing the young male instantly.
“My only reaction is that I wanted to make sure it wasn’t going to grab toddlers and other kids up there,” said Hanson.
The year-old cougar was severely malnourished and likely came to the area in search of food.
Since April, there have been 170 cougar sightings reported on Vancouver Island. Fifteen problem cougars have been destroyed by conservation officers.
Conservation officer Peter Pauwles says “it looks like it’s going to be a busy year” for cougar sightings.
Officers say Hanson’s actions were justified.
As for Bailey, she suffered puncture wounds and has a swollen gland.
To Hanson, the incident proves just how strong the bond between a man and his dog can be.
“It’s the same sort of instinct I think a parent would use with their kid–just to protect them.”
-with files from Kylie Stanton
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