While I can understand the…

While I can understand the environmental and economic impacts are neutral, I worry there is little concern or consideration for the welfare and wellbeing of the captive wildlife in these facilities. Are those animals unharmed in trapping? What is the standard of care given once captive in the facility? Is there an opportunity to escape or hide when pursued by a trained dog? What happens if the wildlife is caught, injured or maimed in training? Without proper protocols and regulations in place to protect the wild animals involved in this activity, this practice is needlessly harmful to wild animals.

With advanced technology and easy access to realistic decoys and synthetic scents, I believe dogs can be trained without this harmful practice. The trial and train areas are not necessary and should be phased out over time, as intended. Hunting is a sport after-all, it shouldn't be that easy.

It is the OMNRF's job to protect our natural resources, including wildlife. This proposal is a step in the wrong direction.