I don't think the statistics really matter. We're not really discussing how to prepare for the event not happening. I do agree that the biggest threats are humans and feral dogs above the wildlife in many areas, though.

Anyway, a couple of points:

1. Extra people is the best thing to bring in areas where wildlife may be a problem. Slow running ones are best, but barring that, someone who doesn't mind pouncing on said wildlife if it's gnawing on you is good too.

2. Pepper spray is the best deterrent for any animals, humans included. Someone mentioned that they had a hard time digging it out of their pocket. Don't carry it that way. Put it in a holster that can be deployed while still attached to you, either on a shoulder strap or at your dominant hand's hip. Learn to fire it from that position, and practice with a practice canister. If an animal (or human) is serious, you won't have time to dig out your spray.

3. However, pepper spray does not always work, for various reasons, so a gun is not a bad idea for back up, provided you're trained to use it. A gun in the hands of your trained friend is better, of course. Relative to cougars/mountain lions, from several accounts I've read, they are much more adverse to prey fighting back than, say, feral dogs are. One account told of hikers assisting someone being attacked by a cat, by stabbing the cat with a Swiss Army knife. So, gun if allowed/trained, or knife or stick, whatever you have. But have something (both you and your friend) on hand. In no-gun zones, a hickory hiking stick and a fixed blade knife are a good idea.