Las Vegas Sun

June 17, 2024

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Animals need a champion in state

Recently, a local man’s dog was inadvertently caught in an illegally baited trap likely intended for wildlife. Whether the victim is intended or not, these contraptions can cause immense suffering. Residents who appreciate our wildlife have attempted to revise trapping laws in the past to make them more humane, with little success. Our trap check time remains at 96 hours — that’s four long days of exposure to the elements and predators without food or water, while enduring painful injuries.

The Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners is tasked with overseeing responsible management of wildlife, yet is comprised of mostly those favoring sportsmen’s interests while basically ignoring the wishes of the non-hunting public.

Gov. Steve Sisolak recently vowed to scrutinize certain licensing and oversight agencies in order to hold them more accountable, and he should be commended for that. Perhaps it’s time to include on this commission someone who will look out for the best interests of those who appreciate wildlife, who cares about the safety of people and their pets.

We have far more residents supporting ecotourism than trapping in Nevada, and their voices should be heard.