Just a reminder to all the dog owners in southwest Colorado to keep your dogs leashed and under control this winter. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has reported at least two elk have died as a result of being chased by dogs near Durango and Bayfield. There are reports of dogs chasing animals in others areas as well including Gunnison, Creede, and Montrose. Dogs chasing wildlife is a major problem in the winter monthes, especially with the deep snow. Check out the article below by the Colorado Division of Wildlife and for more information go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.
DOGS CAUSING PROBLEMS FOR WILDLIFE
Dogs are harassing big game animals in southwest Colorado this winter and Division of Wildlife officials are reminding pet owners to keep their animals under control.
At least two elk died as a result of being chased and injured by dogs near Durango and Bayfield; dogs have chased bighorn sheep in the Almont Triangle area near Gunnison; deer have been harassed near Creede and within the city limits of Durango; and deer and elk have been chased in the Montrose area.
Dogs chasing wildlife is a perennial problem throughout Colorado, but an abundance of snow in the southwest corner of the state is causing additional problems this winter. Deep snow with a crusty surface is making travel difficult for deer and elk. Unlike hoofed animals, dogs can run on top of the crusty snow and are easily chasing down the large animals, said Patt Dorsey, area wildlife manager for the Colorado Division of Wildlife in Durango.
"Some people think their dog would never chase wildlife. But when dogs see deer or elk they may act on their natural instincts and give chase," Dorsey said.
During winter, deer and elk expend large amounts of energy to stay alive - they can lose 30 percent or more of their body weight during the cold months. When big game animals are...
