On the morning of Boxing Day, Victoria Lethbridge and her partner ventured out with their dog and baby, equipped with new snowshoes, for a stroll near their Hickman’s Harbour residence. The peaceful walk turned tragic when their four-year-old pug named Winston fell victim to a beaver trap cleverly placed along the trail, resulting in his untimely demise.
Lethbridge recounted the harrowing experience, expressing deep trauma and reluctance to revisit the trail due to the haunting memory. In a separate incident at Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Jason Bennett’s husky, Brody, got entangled in a spring-loaded leg trap near the 5 Wing Goose Bay military base. Fortunately, Bennett managed to free Brody’s leg unharmed.
The lack of provincial regulations concerning the placement of small game traps near community pathways without the mandatory display of warning signs has sparked concern among pet owners like Lethbridge and Bennett. They are advocating for updated trapping regulations to prevent similar tragedies involving pets in the future.
Trapping, a practice regulated by the government for wildlife management and deeply ingrained in Newfoundland and Labrador’s heritage, requires trappers to hold licenses and adhere to specific guidelines. While there are no specific restrictions on trapping near community spaces unless specified by local authorities, efforts are being made to educate trappers and pet owners on avoiding inadvertent pet captures through enhanced awareness initiatives.
Pet owners are reminded by provincial legislation to keep their animals leashed while off their property, except in Labrador Inuit lands. Both recent incidents involved off-leash dogs on community trails, prompting discussions on striking a balance between pet safety and exercise needs.
In the quest for enhanced safety measures, Lethbridge emphasized the necessity of clearer signage near community areas to alert individuals of potential traps. Meanwhile, Bennett urged trappers to consider the risks posed to pets in commonly frequented locations.
While acknowledging the cultural significance of trapping in the region, Lethbridge stressed the importance of preventive measures such as flags or signs to safeguard pets from unforeseen hazards. The heartfelt support extended to Lethbridge following Winston’s tragic fate underscores the profound impact of the loss on the community.
As the community rallies around these pet owners, the call for improved trapping regulations near residential areas continues to resonate, aiming to prevent future pet-related mishaps and foster a safer outdoor environment for all.