Bear treatment is abusive
To the editor:
Maine residents love our wildlife – especially our bears. Yet for some reason, these beloved and iconic animals are subjected to some of the cruelest practices – such as trapping and hounding, where packs of GPS-collared dogs chase down bears until the animal runs up a tree to escape.
This practice requires little skill and bears no resemblance to real hunting.
Frankly, the fact that Maine is the only state that still allows inhumane trapping of bears is an embarrassment to our state. Thankfully, LD 1474, the Maine Bear Protection Act, would put an end to these abusive activities.
The Pine Tree State is well-known for its beautiful wildlife, and it’s well past time that we start protecting it. Please tell your legislators to support LD 1474.
Paula Barrett
Presque Isle
