‘He was trying to warn us there was a threat nearby’
Dog killed by wolf in Happy Valley-goose Bay, officials say animal has been spotted in backyards, on trails
HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY — Recent sightings of a wolf in Happy Valley-goose Bay have residents on edge.
Chris Budgell, an Edmunds Crescent resident, reported his dog, a five-year-old Husky named Maverick, was killed by the wolf after he bolted into a wooded area.
According to Budgell, the dog had been howling and trying to break free of his chain on two nights prior to his death.
“He was trying to warn us there was a threat nearby,” said Budgell.
Officials from the Department of Fisheries and Land Resources have confirmed the presence of a wolf that has been frequenting backyards and trails in the community.
The last confirmed sighting of the wolf was on Oct. 1, and there have been no further incidents involving pets, according to Craig Renouf, media relations manager with Fisheries and Land Resources.
Reports of wolf sightings since that time have turned out to be huskies or foxes, according to a statement released by the department.
The department believes only one wolf has been in the area at this time, and is continuing to monitor the wolf's known travel routes. Warning signs have been posted in the area.
The department notes wildlife that have become habituated to human food sources such as garbage may lose their natural fear of people.
“This increases the safety risk to both people and pets. Residents are encouraged to take appropriate steps, including keeping pets inside or under close supervision and properly storing garbage to avoid attracting wild animals near homes where the animals can pose a risk to public safety,” Renouf said in a statement.
Pet owners are advised to keep animals indoors or in confined areas, especially if living close to wooded areas. Wolves have been known to occasionally attack small- to mediumsized pets, according to the statement.
The season for wolf shooting opens Oct. 15. The wildlife department also reminds the public that “it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 1,000 metres of a school, playground or athletic field, or within 300 metres of a dwelling.”
Budgell noted that the wildlife department has been responsive and concerned, and officials were doing everything they could to catch the wolf.
“My dog was an amazing dog and he loved his family. He was trying to warn us there was a threat,” said Budgell.