By rdnewsNOW staff

heads up

Town warns Drayton Valley dog owners following “aggressive deer encounters”

Jul 3, 2019 | 11:05 AM

Due to two recent reports of aggressive deer encounters in Drayton Valley, officers are advising people not to take their dogs in areas with heavy vegetation where deer are more likely to be caring for fawns.

If you must take your dog, officials advise you to keep them on leash and do not let your dog bark at or antagonize the deer. This can further stress the deer and lead to aggressive, self-defensive behaviours.

Deer are normally timid and quick to flee when people come near, officials note. However, deer can become surprisingly aggressive when protecting themselves and their young. They can cause serious injury to people or animals that approach them or their offspring.

Some signs of an agitated deer include, staring with flattened ears and raised rump hair, curled lips, grinding teeth, and charging and kicking.

To avoid a deer encounter while recreating in deer country, people should:

sept. 19

Pair arrested after daylight shooting in Red Deer

4h ago

FIRE AND FLOOD MITIGATING, PATENTED TECH

Fire and Flood Emergency Services celebrates new headquarters and technology upgrades

4h ago

Frost Expected Overnight

Frost Advisory issued for Red Deer and surrounding areas

8h ago

• Travel in groups

• Always stay at least 30 metres away from deer if encountered

• Avoid taking pets into areas deer are caring for their fawns

• If you must take your pets/dogs, keep them on leash at all times

• Carry pepper spray for protection

If you are approached by a deer:

• Act dominant by raising your arms or a big object

• Maintain eye contact

• Never turn your back and run

• Back away slowly out of the area

• If you are knocked down or fall, get up and try to find cover.

For more information about human wildlife conflict in Alberta, visit: www.alberta.ca/human-wildlife-conflict-overview.aspx

(Town of Drayton Valley)