Alaska woman uses firearm to protect her dogs during bear attack

An Alaska woman reported that a pistol she was carrying helped save her dog's life after a black bear attacked her pet during a mushroom-foraging trip on the Kenai Peninsula on June 7. Lori Price was walking near Skilak Lake with her German short-haired pointer, Chaos, and chocolate Labrador, Willis, when she heard a roar indicating a bear was near her dogs. Price stated, "I heard the bear and I registered what was going on. My sudden reaction was, I have to get to my dog now." Upon seeing Chaos being attacked, she drew her Glock 43 9mm pistol and fired at the bear. Price initially thought the threat had passed, but the bear got back up, prompting her to fire again. After the bear retreated, Price and her dogs fled the area and she called 911, although poor cellphone reception hindered communication. After reaching her vehicle, she flagged down a passing driver for assistance. Emergency responders arrived and helped care for Chaos, who sustained multiple bite wounds. Price credited veterinarian Dr. Patrick for saving Chaos's life. Chaos was released from the clinic later that day and is expected to recover fully, while Willis was unharmed during the incident.