NewsUS NewsBearsThe 17-month-old bear has been euthanised as a 'threat to public safety' after a stunned dog owner found the wild animal fighting with their pet dog in the garden15:55, 10 Jun 2026A wild bear has been euthanised after it was deemed a 'threat to public safety' for clashing with a married couple and their dog.‌The incident unfolded in Mammoth Lakes, near Yosemite National Park, California, when the wife rushed out of her home after hearing one of the family dogs fighting with the 17-month-old bear.‌She is said to have attempted to pull her pet away before another of her dogs ran out into the garden, leading the American black bear to "turn on her" and slash her with its claws, police said.‌The husband arrived in the garden around this time and went over to rescue her, putting him in the bear's sights. The wife then used a water bottle to get the bear off him, before the husband ran back inside to retrieve a weapon.He re-emerged with a small axe and began hitting the bear with the blunt end, scaring it from the scene.‌The couple were rushed to hospital with serious injuries, including bites and claw markings, but are expected to make a full recovery. The dogs also suffered minor injuries.The bear was deemed a "public safety concern" and euthanised by local environmental officers.Mammoth Lakes Police Chief Dan Casabian said: "Incidents like this are extremely rare in Mammoth Lakes.‌"Bears almost always avoid humans and will flee when confronted. This type of aggressive behaviour is highly unusual. We are grateful that the couple are expected to make full recoveries and appreciate the quick response of our officers, CDFW, Bishop Veterinarian Hospital, and Mammoth Hospital Staff."Confirming the bear had been euthanised, a statement from the department added: "Mammoth Lakes Police officers responded to the scene and were able to locate the bear. They confirmed there was no further threat and turned the investigation over to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). CDFW Law Enforcement determined the bear to be a threat to public safety and department staff humanely euthanised the animal."The couple sustained significant injuries but were able to transport themselves to Mammoth Hospital. The couple’s dogs sustained minor injuries in the altercation but are expected to make a full recovery."Article continues belowLocals have been reminded to keep a safe distance from bears while out walking and take steps to reduce the chance of them coming near homes, including not leaving out pet food and disposing of household rubbish securely.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Bears