Wyoming Considers Strengthening Animal Cruelty Laws in Aftermath of Wolf Abuse
Background:
In a shocking incident last year, a Wyoming man drew international condemnation and death threats after he captured a wounded female wolf, duct-taped its muzzle shut, and dragged it into a bar in Daniel, Wyoming. The man later killed the wolf.
Despite the egregious nature of the incident, Wyoming state officials fined the man a mere $250, not for animal cruelty but for possessing live wildlife. This is because Wyoming law permits the use of snowmobiles or ATVs to chase and run down wolves, coyotes, and other predators in a practice known as "whacking."
Lawmakers’ Response:
The incident has prompted Wyoming lawmakers to consider toughening animal cruelty laws. State Rep. Mike Schmid, a Republican, has proposed a bill that would ban the practice of "whacking" entirely.
"It’s a practice that needs to stop," Schmid said. "It’s painting all hunters in a bad light."
Schmid’s bill would also require anyone who runs over a predator on public land to kill it cleanly rather than letting it suffer and die.
Widespread Support for Changes:
Polls conducted on behalf of both wildlife advocates and hunting groups have indicated broad support for banning "whacking." Animal rights groups have expressed frustration that lawmakers have not yet acted on the issue.
"It should have been a slam-dunk issue," said Kristin Combs, executive director of Wyoming Wildlife Advocates. "I can appreciate the fact that people need to protect their livestock. But they don’t need to be committing torture."
Challenges to the Ban:
While a legislative committee approved the "clean kill" measure, Schmid’s more comprehensive bill appears to have died. Some lawmakers have expressed concerns that a ban on "whacking" could hinder ranchers’ efforts to protect their livestock.
Schmid’s proposal includes an exemption for ranchers targeting predators on private property. However, critics argue that this exemption could create loopholes that allow for continued abuse of animals.
Animal Cruelty vs. Wildlife Management:
The debate over "whacking" reflects the ongoing tension between animal cruelty laws and wildlife management practices. Ranchers argue that they need to control predators to protect their livelihoods. However, animal rights advocates argue that these practices are inhumane and unnecessary.
Conclusion:
The Wyoming legislature is grappling with the issue of balancing the need to protect livestock with the prevention of animal cruelty. The outcome of the current legislative session will determine whether or not Wyoming strengthens its animal cruelty laws and takes a stand against the inhumane practice of "whacking."
