In Paler, Alaska, there’s a growing problem with pets being caught in traps or snares set for wild animals.

In the case of Andre, a large mixed breed, he lost most of the lower half of his left legs after getting caught in an animal trap or snare.

Alaska isn’t as wild as it used to be, and that means that more and more people are living where wild animals once roamed freely. According to Cliff Judkins, chairman of the Alaska Board of Game, it’s an issue that’s been brewing for over two decades.

There’s also Bo Diddley, a 100-pound mixed breed who stepped on a trap about 10 feet off a trail near the fast-growing area of Palmer in December 2007. Bo Diddley’s owner got him out, and she took the trap, left the trapper a nasty note and reported the incident to the Alaska Board of Fish and Game.

Initially, she was charged with stealing the trap, hindering lawful trapping and criminal mischief. The charges were later dropped.

Last year, the Alaska Board of Game approved restrictions requiring that traps and snares be placed 50 yards off trails and trail heads in Chugach State Park.

The Alaska Trappers Association produced a video a few years ago to help educate the non-trapping public on how to recognize a trap line and release a dog if caught, but for some it’s too little too late.

The Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue kennel in Wasilla, Alaska, works with dogs like Andre, helping to secure prostheses for his front leg (he does run on his two good legs, but having a third would definitely improve his situation). 

In the meantime, I personally think there’s got to be a better way to trap wild animals, one that won’t hurt domestic ones in the process. However, a little bit of responsibility must also fall on the shoulder’s of dog owners, as dogs should not be allowed to run off leash in areas other than those designated for that very purpose.

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