County reprieves for grizzly bear

   The incident Tuesday at Predators in Action near Big Bear Lake was a terrible tragedy, and the County is deeply saddened by the loss suffered by the trainer’s family and friends. However, based on the information the County has at this time, the County does not believe the animal or the facility pose a threat to the public. Therefore, the County does not plan to seek the destruction of this animal.

   By all accounts, this was an unfortunate accident that involved a professional trainer who knew and accepted the risks involved in interacting with these types of animals.

   Although there is nothing to indicate that the manner in which the animals are contained played a role in Tuesday’s tragedy, the County’s Office of Preventative Veterinary Services will inspect the facility today to ensure that the animals are secure and pose no risk of escape. Previous inspections by this office have found the facility to be safe and secure. The County’s most recent inspection of this facility was conducted on September 6, 2007.

   The Predators in Action facility holds a permit issued by the County of San Bernardino to operate as an “animal menagerie” that allows the facility to house three or more exotic animals at its location near Big Bear Lake. The primary licensure for this facility is issued by both the California Department of Fish & Game and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

   The County will be in close communication with the California Department of Fish and Game, U.S. Department of Agriculture, California OSHA, and any other regulatory agencies that may become involved as the investigation pertaining to this accident continues.

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