Banff National Park: Tourists charged with leaving their pet dog loose

 

Park officials have charged tourists after they were attacked by a Himalayan grizzly bear while walking their dog unchained in Banff National Park. The incident, which took place on a train at Taylor Lake on July 19, went viral on social media. After investigating the video, Parks Canada wardens identified the individuals and filed charges under Section 5 of the Canada Domestic Animal Regulations Act.

National park rules require that pets in the park must be kept on a leash that is three metres or less in length at all times. Violators of this rule can be fined up to 25,000 Canadian dollars. Parks Canada said that leaving animals loose can be deadly to both wildlife and pets, and that bears are more likely to attack dogs they perceive as a threat.

Officials reminded visitors to be vigilant, as wildlife can be present in the park at any time. The agency urged people to travel in groups of at least four, be quiet, carry bear spray and stay at least 100 metres away from wildlife. Earlier this month, another hiker was injured in a grizzly bear attack in Jasper National Park.