We’ve posted before about the incredible work being done by Karelian Bear Dogs in managing bears gone astray. This sad notice was posted on the Crowsnest Facebook page a few days ago:

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Karelian Bear Dog, “Kuma,” an Alberta Fish and Wildlife K9 service dog.

“Kuma was one of the first wildlife management dogs to enter Canada 15 years ago with his brother Mica, where he was partnered in Alberta with his lifelong friend and handler, District Officer John Clarke.

“Kuma was based out of the Crowsnest Pass, but worked throughout the province with John Clarke. Kuma quickly became respected and admired for his bravery and willingness to enter any situation without hesitation alongside John. Kuma was incredibly loyal to John, and carries the honour of saving John’s life, putting himself between John and a charging cow moose, and later between him and a very dangerous grizzly bear.

“The main focus of Kuma’s career was bear management. He worked on hundreds of bears, both grizzly and black bears alike. There was no greater thrill for him than the command to, “get the bear!” Kuma excelled at tracking, treeing, and ‘pushing’ bears out of unwanted areas, doing so without hesitation or fear. Kuma also became well known for his work teaching the local herds of bighorn sheep to stay off the highway, chasing rogue moose out of town, and seeking out the odd visiting cougar.

One of the amazing attributes Kuma demonstrated was his ability to be strong, fearless, and aggressive when needed on duty, but also able to play with small children and do many tricks for them. Kuma attended many school talks and presentations every year. He met over 100,000 people throughout his career and was friendly and gentle to them all. He especially enjoyed his annual visit to the local Kids Kollege, where he knew treats, cuddles, and kids excitedly awaited his arrival.

“Throughout the years many wild and domestic orphans were hosted in John and Kuma’s home. Kuma’s nurturing side drew these orphans to him; it was not uncommon to see this big strong bear dog sleeping next to a baby or watching over them as they played in the yard. Kuma’s patient and solid temperament gave the younger bear dogs brought into the program an incredible leader and mentor to follow. The smooth training of these younger pups was done in huge part to Kuma’s guiding personality. His partner and younger sister Koda now carries the lead in the field where she excels by Kuma’s example.

“District Officer John Clarke organizes and coordinates the Bearsmart Program in Crowsnest Pass. Kuma became the program ambassador and played an active part in all activities. His main roll was teaching boundaries to resident bears and chasing others out of town. He also attended all presentations, training, and even sat watch at many apple picking events. Kuma had a way of making even the newest volunteer feel safe and confident with his presence as they observed and learned from the officers.
Kuma was featured in numerous documentaries and educational films throughout the years, showing the world his ability to make a difference to the officers he served with and the wildlife that surrounded him. Kuma never failed to do his job to an incredibly high standard and leaves behind a legacy of service.

“In Kuma’s fifteen years he made a huge impression on so many people and animals, but mostly on his handler, partner, and friend, District Officer John Clarke. The bond the two of them shared, through the memories and moments passed, is legend.

“Fish and Wildlife K9 Unit KUMA End of Watch Jan 06 2016.”

Rest in Peace, Kuma. Good dog.