On a snowy Boxing Day, Victoria Lethbridge and her partner ventured out for a morning stroll with their dog and baby in new snowshoes near their Hickman’s Harbour residence. Sadly, their walk ended abruptly in tragedy when their four-year-old pug named Winston fell victim to a beaver trap set along the path.
Expressing deep distress, Lethbridge shared the haunting memory, stating her reluctance to revisit the trail where the incident occurred. Similarly, in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Jason Bennett’s husky, Brody, got ensnared in a spring-loaded trap placed in the vicinity behind the 5 Wing Goose Bay military base, a popular walking area. Fortunately, Bennett managed to release Brody’s leg unharmed.
Both pet owners are advocating for enhanced trapping regulations to prevent future pet injuries and fatalities. Despite the absence of provincial guidelines regarding the placement of small game traps near community trails, they are urging for updated regulations and the installation of warning signs.
Trapping is a government-regulated practice in Newfoundland and Labrador, crucial for wildlife management and deeply ingrained in the local culture. While trappers are required to possess licenses and adhere to specific guidelines, there are no explicit prohibitions on trapping near public areas unless specified by local authorities.
In response to recent incidents, the Minister of Forestry, Agriculture, and Lands affirmed efforts to educate both trappers and pet owners on avoiding such mishaps. Emphasizing the need for vigilance during trapping seasons, the government encourages compliance with provincial and municipal regulations mandating pet leashing, except in Labrador Inuit lands.
Despite acknowledging the cultural significance of trapping, Lethbridge and Bennett are advocating for improved signage and regulations near community spaces to safeguard pets and individuals. Lethbridge emphasized the potential benefits of clear warnings, suggesting that a simple sign could have prevented the heartbreaking loss of Winston.
While recognizing the trapper’s intentions to address beaver-related issues, Lethbridge emphasized the need for preventive measures like flags or signs to avert similar incidents in the future. The community has rallied around Lethbridge, offering messages of support and solidarity in the wake of Winston’s tragic demise.
