Wild dogs can cause substantial suffering to livestock when they kill or injure sheep, calves or other young animals. They are the subject of a number of control programs around Australia because of their potential to cause envornmental and agricultural damage. The main ways in which wild dogs are controlled is through trapping and baiting programs.

The RSPCA is not opposed to the use of lethal control methods for pest animals provided that there is justification for such killing and there is no effective, humane non-lethal alternative method available. However, the RSPCA is opposed to any method of control that does not result in a humane death. Current methods of trapping do not meet this requirement, as animals that are caught in traps can suffer greatly for a considerable time before they are finally killed.

There are a range of steel-jawed and other leg-hold traps used in Australia. Some States and Territories have placed restrictions on the type of traps that can be used, but all jawed traps are capable of inflicting pain and suffering when animals are caught.

Many traps are set in remote areas where there is no possibility of checking them daily, and dogs (or other, non-target, species) could potentially remain caught in a trap for several days until they are killed. Even though this situation results in unacceptable cruelty, the RSPCA cannot prosecute as pest animal control legislation overrides the provisions of animal welfare legislation.

RSPCA Australia believes that toothed steel-jawed leg-hold traps and snares should be banned from use in all Australian States and Territories as they cause serious physical injury and suffering to the captured animal. The use of any type of live trap can also cause suffering if the captured animal injures itself when attempting to escape, is rendered vulnerable to attack from other animals, or is restrained for a long period without food or water. Such traps should only be used in circumstances that avoid potential suffering and where regular checks are made. Alternative methods of control such as exclusion fencing should be used far more widely. RSPCA Australia believes that traps that kill instantaneously and reliably are a humane method of control and supports the development of devices to enable this, where lethal control is necessary. As a matter of urgency, research must be funded to facilitate the adoption of alternative trapping devices for all wild dog trapping.