Releasing Hunting Dogs from Foothold Traps and Snares: A Comprehensive Guide

While hunting with dogs is a cherished tradition for many, it’s not without its risks. One of the dangers that hunting dogs face is getting caught in foothold traps or snares. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to safely release your hunting dog from these traps.

Understanding the Traps

Foothold traps and snares are commonly used by trappers to catch game. The most common types include coil spring traps, long spring traps, and cable snares.

Coil Spring Traps

These traps are activated when an animal steps on the pan in the center of the trap, causing the jaws to close around the animal’s foot.

Long Spring Traps

Similar to coil spring traps, these traps have long metal springs on either side and are triggered in the same way.

Cable Snares

These are nooses made from thin but strong wire cable. They are set in a loop and tighten around the animal’s body when it passes through.

Releasing Your Dog From a Foothold Trap

If your dog gets caught in a foothold trap, it’s crucial to remain calm and act quickly. Here are the steps to release your dog:

  1. Approach your dog slowly and calmly, speaking in a soothing voice.
  2. Gently restrain your dog to prevent further injury.
  3. For coil and long spring traps, apply downward pressure on both springs at once. This can be done with one foot on either side of the trap1.
  4. Once the springs are compressed, the jaws of the trap can be opened, and the dog’s foot can be carefully removed.

For a visual guide, refer to this video.

Releasing Your Dog From a Snare

Releasing a dog from a snare can be more challenging, especially if the cable has become entangled in the dog’s coat2. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Again, approach your dog calmly and restrain them gently.
  2. Loosen the snare by pushing the cable towards the loop lock and sliding it back.
  3. If the snare is too tight or entangled, use a pair of side-cutters to cut the cable.

Check out this tutorial for a visual guide.

Potential Injuries and Prevention

Traps and snares can cause injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to fractures or even amputations in severe cases. After releasing your dog, check for injuries and consult a veterinarian immediately if needed.

Prevention is always better than cure. Keep your dog close while hunting and train them to avoid traps.

Remember, knowledge is power. Being aware of how to release your dog from a trap or snare can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

Footnotes

  1. Project Upland. (n.d.). Dogs and Traps: A Guide to Upland Hunting in Shared Spaces. ↩

  2. Gun Dog Magazine. (n.d.). How to Free a Dog From an Animal Trap. ↩