|
|
|
Farmers fear loss of dog trappers will bite hard
31 May 2004
Gippsland farmers are urging the Victorian Government to think twice about reducing the number of dog trappers, as livestock continues to be menaced. Farmers estimate that more than 1,000 sheep have been killed since the end of 2003 as dingo cross-breeds move closer to towns for food.
Gippsland farmers are alarmed that trapper numbers will be dropped by six at the end of June. Five of these trappers were employed after last year’s bushfires, when the dogs’ habitat was burnt out. The dogs are crosses between dingoes and domestic dogs, including kelpies and heelers.
Farmers say now is not the time to cut the number of doggers. One said he couldn’t comprehend it: “This animal shouldn't even be in the system and now their numbers will build up”.
The Age, 31/5/04.
|
|
