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CVMA Calls for Better Controls on Trapping of Fur-Bearing Animals
January 26, 2026
A dog from East Kootenay, B.C. died by strangulation in a Conibear trap (see CBC News story) on January 8. This death was preventable and, unfortunately, not an isolated incident. Conibear traps are spring-loaded and designed to snap around an animal’s neck. The trap was lethal, had no obvious release mechanism, was too close to public access and was baited to be highly attractive to most carnivores. A warning sign was obscured.
Trappers are urged to consider the possibility of harm to domestic animals when selecting, placing and baiting traps. Clear and visible signage is critical, particularly in areas with public access. The CVMA calls for stronger controls on trapping requirements to ensure that companion animals are not harmed or killed in traps.
Please see our position statement Trapping of Fur-Bearing Animals.