June 19, 2013
Wednesday PM

To: Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Ketchikan, Alaska

To Whom It May Concern:

Yesterday afternoon (June 16th), after stopping on Connell Lake Road, we let our dogs out of our truck to cool off in the river next to the road. The next five minutes proved nearly fatal to one of our dogs, as we saw him thrashing about with a beaver snare tightly wound around his neck. He was having difficulty breathing, and we had to pull his front paws up on a log to keep the noose from getting any tighter. The snare is made of cable, so a knife will not sever the line. We were fortunate to have a cell phone, we called the State Troopers who arrived at the scene and saved our dog's life.

How can it be that this happened only a few yards from the road, so close to Last Chance Campground in a recreation area? In addition, we were unaware of any signs alerting us to the trapline. We have been there many times over the years, and not had a problem. If trapping there is indeed legal, we would like to inquire as to which steps to take to facilitate changing of the law, to protect people and pets from this life-threatening situation.

I think your agency owes it to the people of Alaska to educate them about the man-made dangers lurking in unexpected places within our recreational areas. One misstep and immediately it becomes an emergency situation. Step-by-step instructions should be provided as to how to go about releasing a person or pet from these dreadful snares. It is shameful that we cannot enjoy our beautiful surroundings without getting "trapped". May I also suggest you consider an additional page to your website to allow anonymous reports from citizens who have concerns regarding this issue, or have found themselves in a similar situation.

Sincerely,

Tina R. McPherson
Ketchikan, Alaska

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