A large predator about to kill a small humanoid

You run over and find the source of the noise. One of those large predators you were worried about earlier. It's the size of a horse and looks like a cross between a cougar and wolf. It has blue colored fur to blend in with the needles. The creature has trapped a small humanoid and was about to land a killing blow when you interupted its hunt.

It turns to look at you with dangerous eyes. You point your rifle at it and pause. You're not sure if your rifle will be able to kill this beast before it can get to you. You notice the dimunitive prey look at you with pleading, intelligent eyes. You have a choice to make.