The Death Penalty For Dogs That Chase Deer
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Dogs caught chasing deer may be killed by a person other than a peace or conservation officer, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Between Jan. 1 and July 14, a person other than a peace or conservation officer may kill a dog that has pursued, wounded or killed a big game animal.
Dogs chasing deer this time of year is an annual problem, according to a DNR report. The deer are cold and struggling to survive while dogs are full of energy and ready to run.
The report urged dog owners to keep control over their dogs.
DNR Enforcement Director, Col. Jim Konrad said, "The DNR doesn't perceive this as a dog problem. We perceive it as a people problem."
The owner of a dog that kills or pursues a deer is guilty of a petty misdemeanor and may be fined up to $500 for each violation.
