TRAPPING -- I reported in December that pets, especially dogs, are vulnerable to traps set out near recreational trails.

As if to emphasize the point, two dogs have been reported killed recently by traps in North Idaho.

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game is gathering input from lawmakers, recreationists and trappers.

Two pet dogs were recently killed in northern Idaho when they wandered off a hiking trail and into a body-gripping trap set for a wild animal. Currently, trappers are allowed to set traps in many public recreational areas as long as they are at least five feet from the center of any trail. Trappers are not required to post warning signs.