How to Release a Trap

All over the world, people set out traps to catch wild animals. Some of these animals are caught for monetary purposes; others pose a danger to the people and animals who live nearby. At times, however, the traps set for these wild animals catch a very different prey: the pets of people who live nearby. If you ever find an animal caught in a trap, you can take steps to release the animal from the trap. Doing so may save the animal's life.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire cutter
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Instructions

  1. Conibear Traps

    • 1

      Squeeze the two springs on the side of the animal's head and quickly twist the entire trap 90 degrees so that the springs sit above and below the head. This will allow the animal to breathe.

    • 2

      Place both of your hands on the spring above the animal's head and squeeze tightly.

    • 3

      Fasten the safety lock over the spring.

    • 4

      Repeat with the spring at the bottom of the animal's head.

    • 5

      Slide the trap out gently from over the animal's head.

    Snare Traps

    • 6

      Calm the animal as much as possible. The more that the animal struggles, the more the snare will tighten around its neck.

    • 7

      Slide a finger between the metal cable and the animal's neck.

    • 8

      Slip one arm of the wire cutters between the cable and the animal's neck.

    • 9

      Cut the cable, being careful not to injure the animal in the process.

    Leg Hold Traps

    • 10

      Calm the animal as well as you can to avoid being bitten while releasing the trap.

    • 11

      Place each hand on one of the springs on the sides of the trap, and push down as hard as you can. This may release the grip of the trap, letting the animal free. If it does not, go on to Step 3.

    • 12

      Step on the two springs on either side of the trap to release it. The animal should be able to pull its paw free.