Bear mauls dog at Collier County home

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —

A dog was attacked by a black bear at a home in Collier County Wednesday night.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the dog suffered minor injuries in the attack before the bear was hazed away from the area.

FWC's Bear Management staff was notified of the incident. It was reported on Rose Apple Lane.

A bear contractor will set up a trap at the location and attempt to capture and relocate the bear if it returns, FWC said.

In addition, FWC advised that dogs can trigger defensive behaviors in bears, and in order to avoid an encounter between a bear and your dog, you can bang on your door and flip your house lights on and off to give the bear and other wildlife time to leave the area before letting your dog out.

If you do not have a fenced yard, you could also walk your dog on a short non-retractable leash when taking them outside. Click here to learn more about bears and click here to learn how to avoid conflicts with them.

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