October 30, 2025, submitted by Mary Beth Zimmerle

A group of more than 30 dog enthusiasts attended a free workshop, “K9 Trap and Snare Release,” held Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Seward Dog Lodge. Heidi Sinclair organized the workshop.

Sinclair was joined by Chris Bottom, a wildlife biologist with Alaska Fish and Game, and Rob Massengill, a retired biologist from the same agency. Both Bottom and Massengill volunteered their time and expertise to the event. Each attendee also received a trap release rope.

The workshop’s agenda included an overview of trapping regulations and available resources, demonstrations of trap setting and operation, including conibear traps, footholds, and snares, as well as considerable time spent practicing trap release techniques. The session also offered tips for identifying traps in the field.

The event began indoors with demonstrations and hands-on practice before moving outdoors. Outside, participants viewed examples of traps commonly found in the area. Scent lures used for trapping were circulated to help dog owners become more aware of potential hazards. Here is a non-educational video about the class contents.

SOS Pets of Seward provided K9 first-aid kits. Attendees donated over $200 to support Bethel Friends of Canines, an organization that assists pets affected by recent floods.

Originally scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the class extended until 2 p.m. due to high attendance and the importance of hands-on practice.

This marks the second time Sinclair has hosted the workshop with Bottom and Massengill as instructors. Organizers hope the class will become an annual tradition.

Recommended minimal equipment for owners to carry in case a dog needs to be released from a trap includes a leash, a 4-5 foot piece of slippery rope (3/8-inch thickness is effective), and cable cutters.

Seward Dog Lodge is an adventure-based doggie daycare, open year-round for dog exercise and adventure. Seward Dog Lodge

The class was dedicated to Abby, a dog lost to a conibear trap on January 9, 2022.