Traps set for Coyotes Trap and Injure Dogs

Summary:

KANSAS CITY, MO – Owner Elisabeth took her dogs, 13-year-old Boston Terrier Oreo and 11-year-old rescue Fred, to enjoy a peaceful walk at Mission Hills’ Peetwood Park. A moment later, Oreo began to yelp in pain. As she rushed over to help Oreo, she dropped Fred’s leash. The other pup scampered off before he, too, was howling. Two steel leghold traps had clamped onto the dogs’ legs. The two dogs cried for roughly 20 minutes before city and animal control personnel arrived to release the dogs. Oreo had passed out from the pain by the time help arrived. Fred had bitten Elisabeth’s arm while she tried to free him from the trap. She rushed the dogs to the vet to receive X-rays, IVs, and pain medicine. Both were referred to a veterinary dentist, as their mouths were likely wounded from attempting to free themselves from the traps. They had also broke bones in their jaws and faces. Altogether, their medical bills cost over $20,000. Fourteen teeth were extracted from each dog. City officials said the four traps had been removed after the dogs were injured. The traps were placed in the park after residents voiced concerns about coyotes in the area. Fred and Oreo continue to recover.

UPDATE: after the incident, the city stated: “At this time, there are no current plans for trapping and the City Council asked the Crime Prevention and Safety Committee to re-review the coyote issue as well as the unfortunate trapping incident and examine potential options for moving forward.”

Result:

N/A