Mountain lion kills Bridgeport woman's dog

A mountain lion that has been seek lurking around Bridgeport claimed a dog being taken for a walk on Sunday.

Bridgeport resident and librarian Abbey Bridges was taking a walk withy her do near Travertine Hot Springs outside of the Mono County seat.

The dog walked away from Bridges and near a stand of pinon trees, where it encountered the mountain lion.

Bridges said she heard her dog being attacked and killed. She escaped and returned with friends to search for her dog.

She said she found large mountain lion tracks in the area, and the remains of her dog nearby.

Mono County Sheriff's Public Information Officer Shannon Kendall said the mountain lion has been seen during the daytime on Masonic Road and on the runway of the Bridgeport Airport.

"Individuals are advised to be aware of the possibility of seeing the mountain lion if they are out walking around the Bridgeport area, especially if dogs are on the walk," Kendall said. "Mountain lions are extremely dangerous and should never be approached. If anyone sees a mountain lion that is a threat to public safety, don't hesitate to contact the sheriff's department who can respond and will notify the Department of Fish and Game as well."

Kendall said the sheriff's department offered its condolences for the loss of her dog.