Man and dog attacked by rutting deer in Fernwood

Another deer attack in the Victoria area has prompted the Conservation Officer Service (COS) to warn residents of the dangers posed by these animals during rutting season. 

The latest incident involving a deer attack took place on the evening of November 4th, when a dog was let outside in the owner’s backyard. 

Soon after letting the dog out, the owner reportedly heard a yelp and ran to help.

“Without warning, the owner was knocked down by a buck, which continued hitting him with its antlers,” said COS in a statement. 

“The owner suffered minor injuries and managed to fight the deer off.”

The dog had to undergo surgery due to its injuries.

Similarly to this situation another buck attacked and killed a dog on October 30th in Oak Bay.

COS says that in that incident, the dog was let outside in the yard at around 8 p.m., when a buck suddenly lunged at the dog and impaled it with its antlers.

“Deer can become more aggressive towards pets and people during rutting (mating) season,” warns COS.

---

Related:

---

Rutting typically begins in mid-to-late October, and runs for several weeks.

During this time, COS is encouraging Greater Victoria residents to take precautions in case of deer encounters.  

COS says that dogs can be perceived as a potential predator or threat to deer. 

Attacks may be unpredictable, but more common during rutting season. Signs of an imminent attack or charge include deer laying their ears back and lowering their head.

COS recommends giving deer a wide berth  any time of year and keeping dogs on-leash so they can be kept under control. 

They added that if a deer indicates it may attack you or your pet, it is best to avoid eye contact, speak softly and back away slowly. 

A good defensive tactic is to hide behind a tree or other solid object nearby. Additionally bear spray can also be used on deer if they get too close.

COS recommends visiting their website for information on deer safety as well as all of BC’s potential predators and wildlife. 

Deer conflicts can be reported to the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline at 1-877-952-7277.