The MSPCA-Angell is opposed to all forms of animal trapping that cause pain and suffering or are conducted for commercial or recreational purposes.
Devices such as leghold traps, Conibear traps, and snares inflict significant pain and suffering upon millions of animals annually. Additionally, these devices pose a serious danger to non-target wildlife and domestic pets.
Commercial and recreational trapping is conducted primarily to support the fur industry. The MSPCA-Angell believes fur products are unnecessary to meet human needs and therefore, has no justification for trapping and killing animals for their fur. The MSPCA-Angell opposes wildlife management programs that maintain populations of “harvestable” species for trapping.
The MSPCA-Angell recognizes that, under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to capture wild animals to remove them from danger, conduct a study that will benefit animals, or remove animals from a situation in which they pose a significant threat to humans. In these circumstances, animals should be humanely trapped for relocation. If relocation is not an option and euthanasia is necessary, methods used should be both effective and humane.
Therefore, the MSPCA-Angell will:
- provide information to the public about the suffering caused by trapping.
- educate the public to eliminate the demand for fur products.
- work with the appropriate agencies to encourage strict enforcement of existing trapping laws.
- advocate against inhumane trapping.
