An Alaska woman used a pistol to defend her dog during a black bear attack on the Kenai Peninsula earlier this month. Lori Price was walking near Skilak Lake on June 7 with her German short-haired pointer, Chaos, and chocolate Labrador, Willis, when a black bear attacked Chaos. Price, who was carrying a Glock 43 9mm pistol, fired at the bear after it mauled her dog. The bear initially fell but later got back up, prompting Price to fire again before fleeing the area with her dogs. Price called 911 but struggled with poor cellphone reception before flagging down a passing driver for help. Emergency responders arrived and assisted Chaos, who suffered multiple bite wounds and significant blood loss. Price later drove Chaos to a veterinary clinic for treatment.
Price described the attack as terrifying, stating she believed she and her dog were in grave danger. She recalled the bear acting aggressively, comparing the injuries to a 'little sardine' being mauled. The incident highlights the risks of bear encounters in Alaska, where such attacks are not uncommon. Price credited her quick reaction and the presence of her firearm with saving her dog's life.
Background on bear attacks in Alaska: The incident follows other recent bear-related incidents in the state, including a fatal attack in Florida involving an 89-year-old man and his dog, as well as injuries sustained by two U.S. Army soldiers during a training exercise. Experts emphasize the importance of carrying bear spray or firearms in bear-prone areas and knowing how to react in such encounters.