Idaho Fish and Game Hunter Education Technician John Kunkle will conduct a trap awareness seminar for pet owners on July 22 from 10 a.m. to noon. The seminar will be held at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, 2885 W Kathleen Ave, Coeur d’Alene.
There is no charge to attend. Advance registration is recommended as the seminar is limited to 30 participants. To register, call Idaho Fish and Game at (208)769-1414.
The trap awareness seminar is designed for anyone who takes their dog for walks on public trails or public land. "Most dog owners are unfamiliar with traps," Kunkle noted. "This seminar will provide them with some practical knowledge related to trapping. Participants will learn what to look for when walking their pets in areas where traps may be set. Steps to take to safely release a pet unharmed will also be covered.”
Kunkle will show and discuss the different types of traps that might be encountered, including foot-hold traps, body-gripping traps, and restraint devices. He will demonstrate how each trap type works and how to release a pet from a trap. Other topics include trapping seasons, areas to avoid at certain times of the year while walking your pet, trapping rules, leash laws, and what to do if a trap is encountered.
Foot-hold devices have been used for many years for wildlife trap and transplant programs, and for wildlife research. Foot-hold traps are not inherently dangerous to canines. Restrained canines can be easily released unharmed from these devices. However, Kunkle wants pet owners to be able to release their pets and continue with their walk rather than finding themselves a position where they need to call for assistance to release their pet.
For information about the trap awareness seminar, contact the Idaho Fish and Game Panhandle Region office at 208-769-1414.