Traps are barbaric

The state of Idaho’s new tactic in its war on wolves is cruel and indiscriminate. Leg traps and snares are a barbaric practice that captures not only the intended victim but any creature of the forest or domestic pet that has the misfortune of stepping in the wrong place.

Getting the unintended victim released from the terrifying grasp of the trap will not be an easy task. The trapper confronted with a raging injured and desperate cougar or other forest creature will probably resort to the quickest and easiest solution; lead to the head.

What will the conscientious hunter or day hiker do when his or her four-legged companion and buddy become trapped, resulting in an extremely panicked situation for both pet and owner?

Getting a trapped animal out of a mechanical device designed to hold the victim for days or until they chew their leg off or die of thirst alive and uninjured is no easy task. I know, I have been there. Don’t believe for a second that man’s best friend is going to calmly stand there and gently lick your face while you attempt to release it.

Ken Clark

Sandpoint