A cougar that tried to snatch a dog that was outside with its owner on Jan. 10 was trapped last week on a neighboring piece of property.
Sweet Home police issued a warning to residents after the dog, which police said belonged to Kathi Melson, a resident in the 1000 block of 43rd Avenue, was attacked just about 12:30 p.m. The attack occurred as Melson, 62, and her boxer-shepherd mix exited their home. The cougar then took off and moved westbound toward 42nd Avenue. The canine suffered a severe laceration on its side from the attack and was transported to the Sweet Home Veterinary Clinic.
Greg Reed, a wildlife biologist with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, said the female, which was estimated to be 1 to 2 years old, was caught after being detected on cameras set up on adjacent properties.
“We got a picture of the one and she was trapped and humanely killed,” Reed said. “We consider an attack on a pet a human safety issue. Also, it was within the city limits, during daytime. We don’t relocate those animals.”
The cougar was live-trapped by a U.S. Department of Agriculture trapper on timber property nearby, he said.
To report a cougar sighting, call the police non-emergency line at (541) 367-5181.