DogExpress
A couple is being treated at Mission Hospital for injuries sustained after being mauled by a black bear on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville on Sept. 29. The incident has caused the closing of trails near the popular area.
The man and lady, who live nearby, were having a picnic on a grassy hill when their dog’s barking alerted them to the presence of a bear, according to Leesa Brandon, Parkway spokesperson.
The dog, which was not on a leash, charged toward the bear, barking loudly.
The officials believe that the bear acted defensively toward the dog and the couple, most likely because it was irritated by the dog’s barking. The bear attacked the couple and their dog numerous times over the next few minutes as they withdrew to the safety of their vehicle.
The couple sustained lacerations and scratches as a result of the bear encounter, but the dog was unharmed.
Officials at the park stated that this is also a vital eating season for bears before they hibernate for the winter. They warned that visitors should exercise caution and observe BearWise rules and adhere to food storage regulations, keeping pets on leashes, and staying a safe viewing distance from bears.
Rangers strongly advise fighting back with any object available if you are attacked by a black bear, and keep in mind that bears may see you and your pet dogs as prey.
Source: USA Today
in Chandigarh, India. 
