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RSPCA warns about leghold traps
Stern warning from the RSPCA on leghold traps
Following disturbing reports over recent months about leghold traps, RSPCA Tasmania has issued a stern warning.
“We want to remind the public that it is ILLEGAL under the Animal Welfare Act 1993 (amended) to set these extremely cruel devices”, said Interim Chief Executive Officer Angela Ayling. “Under a curious anomaly in the Act, it is not illegal to sell these traps, however, it is safe to assume that anyone buying such a trap intends to use it illegally.
“Our Inspectors have advised that anyone found using these traps will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law”.
The RSPCA says that animals trapped in these devices never die quickly. They die slow, desperate, agonising deaths filled with pain and terror. Many animals end up trying to chew through their own limbs to try and escape. As far back as 2005, the Tasmanian Greens sought to bring in a Bill which would totally prohibit the sale and use of these torture devices, yet still the anomaly exists under the current Act. Just this week, a wallaby was found caught in a trap, dogs have been trapped on the North West Coast and a pet cat was caught in a leghold trap at Collinsvale in the South last year. The cat had to have a leg amputated at the shoulder. The traps also catch protected and endangered wildlife.
“We want the public to be aware that ignorance of the law, or the age of the perpetrator will be no excuse if we identify people using these traps”, continued Ms Ayling. “We urge people to destroy any traps in their possession with a sledgehammer, or to hand them in at one of our shelters for permanent destruction”.
Media Contact: Angela Ayling 0400 369920