All for the fur of it…And it’s legal. Yeah, the law, often reflecting the values of the most backwards segments of society is not exactly a moral paragon of excellence. This is what has presented reformers and revolutionists with a quandary since injustice was discovered by thinking, compassionate humans.
We ask: Why is it that huge civilized majorities oppose these types of barbaric devices, occupations and pastimes and yet never manage to outlaw them? What is the political clout, the secret political formula that backward rurals have on the American political culture and media? The material below is written apparently to mobilize people who have animal companions, but Conibear traps and their ilk should be stamped out even if not a single cat or dog was ever victimized by them. They are an abomination that victimizes wildlife, period. That should be more than enough. —P. Greanville
Conibear Traps—These are the most dangerous to your pet. The ODFW has to date supplied no information on how to free your pet from this or any other trap, but refers citizens to links from other states. The following information comes from the Nova Scotian Government and the Wisconsin Dept. Of Natural Resources.
In Oregon, traps with up to a 9″ jaw spread are legal to use on dry land. Known by their ID number as 280 traps, these are nearly impossible to open by hand, and in fact in many other states their use except in water is prohibited to avoid trapping non-targeted animals, including dogs.
These traps have a square frame with two rotating jaws. Larger versions typically have two springs. These traps are designed to strike small to medium- sized animals in the neck or body and kill them quickly.
STEP 1: Immediately squeeze both springs and twist the trap so the jaws are not placing pressure on the animal’s windpipe.
STEP 2: Squeeze together one of the springs using both hands until you’re able to fasten the the safety lock over the arm of the spring. This relieves the pressure from one side of the trap.
Twisting 90° takes the pressure off the animal’s windpipe.
STEP 3: Repeat the same process for the other spring.
STEP 4: Slide the animal’s head from between the jaws of the trap.
International Animal Rescue Foundation World Action America
