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Exactly. If you have a fox/coyote trap, and catch a cat or smaller dog, the animal could lose its leg. I know this one - DH trapped for years, and has had it happen. My SIL had a 3-legged dog because of a leghold trap. That doesn't meant that EVERY animal would be maimed. Why take chances? A live trap is just less traumatic for the unintended target, IMO.
Have you ever seen the leg on a yote or fox? Most CATS have bigger legbones, so the risk is MINIMAL at best.
Tell me, what was the story on your SILs dog and what breed? I'm betting it was off leash and where it wasn't supposed to be. Just sayin...
A live trap is no less traumatic, as the animal is STILL trapped. Trapped is trapped.
BeckahBear: Sorry - I didn't mean to start something that would hijack your thread. You need to do what you feel is best in your situation, and do what's most comfortable for you. I was only offering my opinion on how and why I would handle a similar situation as yours. I hope you can get rid of the dogs one way or another.
Wolfwoman: I have no intention of starting a debate. Just stating my opinion. The dog was a small terrier-mix, on their own property (farmland with many acres - if you were to drive past any place around here, there are no dogs "on leash". Everyone knows their neighbor's dogs, and the dogs all know where they belong - those that wander don't last long, especially if they're causing problems). There was an area that was being trapped, dog got caught. One of those "unintended targets" I was talking about. I'm not anti-trapping, and you're right. Trapped is trapped. Some animals are found sleeping in the traps. They do wake up. Personally, if I have to release an animal from a trap, I'd rather be able to open the door and hope it just leaves rather than try to spring a leg-hold on an animal that could be scared or hurt and not wanting me that close. Not saying I'm right or that you're wrong. Once again, just stating my opinion. 'Nuff said.