Dog walker finds dangerous animal trap in public park

A dog walker says she is “disturbed” after finding a dangerous trap in a public park.

Morag Pacione was shocked to find the plastic snare while walking through Camperdown Park in Dundee.

This type of device, which works by fastening itself around an animal’s leg and holding it in place, is mainly used to capture wild creatures.

Their use on public land is illegal due to the danger they pose to pets, and they have previously been criticised due to concerns over animal cruelty.

Morag, owner of the dog walking service Patch Pets, said: “It was just the one I found but there could be more.

“It was quite disturbing to see because this in a city park, not in a glen or anything.

“Obv ious l y, I understand that they can be used to catch squirrels and things like that but I don’t actually know if they are legal or not in the UK. There is huge potential for cats and dogs to get caught in them, especially because they like to sniff along the ground when they go out.

“I heard from a friend that they can be used by poachers to trap things such as roe deer, and if they’re getting a deer then they could easily get around the leg of a smaller dog or even a small child.

“Cats also get out in these woods a lot and I can’t imagine what would happen if one were to get a snare around its neck. That would be awful.”

Morag also expressed concern for local wildlife, adding: “This isn’t some wilderness.

“We d o n’ t have a sur vivalist living out here. What we have is someone trying to trap and kill wildlife in a city park.

“I just think disturbing.”

A spokesman for Dundee City Council said: “We are investigating the matter.” it’s quite

Morag holds up the ‘disturbing’ animal trap.

Morag with one of her dogs.