I've always thought that if something is so bad you can't even watch it, you shouldn't even be doing it.

There are several factors which need to be considered regarding the use of Conibear traps:

1. Animal Cruelty

The Conibear trap has been deemed to be inhumane by the American Veterinary Association, as has been banned in 11 States. Although the City will say the traps are humane, there really isn’t any difference between American beavers and Canadian beavers. If it’s inhumane for American beavers, it’s inhumane for Canadian beavers too.

The Conibear is supposedly a "quick-kill" trap if it operates in perfect conditions, but animals do not always swim into a trap in a perfectly straight line. They often go through on an angle which means they get caught, and are forced to endure a gruesome death.

Drowning is not a humane way to die.

Risk to residents:

There are numerous documented cases of children being caught and injured in Conibear traps. Although we are fortunate that residents of Port Coquitlam haven't been injured in the traps (or at it least it wasn't reported), it is only a matter of time before a local child is injured. Council has been made away of the dangers, so which of them will stand up and accept responsibility for jeopardizing the safety of residents?

Conibear traps require a great deal of strength the set and open. Trapping websites recommend trappers always carry a hacksaw blade with them at all times in case they cannot open the Conibear trap once it has clamped shut on its victim. If you live in Poco you’d better carry a hacksaw blade with you at all times. Whether it’s a family pet or a family member, you’d better be prepared to cut them out if a Conibear trap catches them.