Out & About: Snake-aversion clinic for dogs June 26
OUTBACK-OFF – A rattlesnake- aversion clinic for dogs is being offered June 26 in Lewiston by California- based Natural Solutions.
The clinic is promoted by Lewiston-area resident Shelly DeAtley, who lost her dog to a rattlesnake bite two years ago.
“This is the second year I’ve hosted these trainers and we’ve had a great response from owners whose dogs went through the training last year,” DeAtley said.
“This is the only stop the trainers will make in Idaho.”
After researching several outfits offering the aversion clinics – including some that do not use live snakes – she said she found good reviews for Natural Solutions. “What really sold me was that they care for their snakes as part of their team.”
Natural Solutions will conduct a similar clinic June 27 in Winthrop through Methow Valley Veterinary Hospital, (509) 996-3231.
She talked the company into coming to Lewiston. Permits had to be obtained to bring their snakes into the state.
“We had 28 dogs, mostly sporting dogs, go through the stations and successfully complete training last year,” she said. “I’m hoping for 60 dogs this year.
“Natural Solutions again gave us a discounted rate of $70 per dog and I am donating my time and space so the costs stay as low as possible.”
Sign up: DeAtley, (208) 413-3032, email shellyd181@gmail.com.
States offer free fishing
OUTCAST – General fishing license requirements are being waived in the Inland Northwest on upcoming days as state fish and wildlife agencies offer the public a chance to check out the sport.
Free fishing days are scheduled:
• Saturday-Sunday in Washington and Oregon.
• June 13 in Idaho.
• June 20-21 in Montana.
In Washington, no license will be required to fish or gather shellfish in any waters open to fishing. Also, no vehicle access pass or Discover Pass will be required during Free Fishing Weekend.
All other limits and rules still apply. Get state fishing rules pamphlets online or where licenses are sold.
Events may be scheduled in some local areas during the free fishing days. In Washington, a fishing derby is set for 8 a.m.-noon Sunday at Rainbow Lake 14 miles south of Pomeroy along the Tucannon River.
Trails Day project help needed
OUTDO – Sign up for a June 14 National Trails Day project on Trail 100 in Riverside State Park.
Details: rei.com/spokane.
Fredericks named director
OUTPROMOTE – Jim Fredericks, Idaho Fish and Game Department fisheries biologist, was promoted from Panhandle Regional fisheries manager in Coeur d’Alene to state fisheries director at the agency’s headquarters in Boise.