MIAOLI (TVBS News) — The Miaoli Animal Care and Health Office (苗栗縣動物保護防疫所) reported on Wednesday (Aug. 14) that it handled 26 cases of animal rescues involving trap injuries to dogs and cats from January to July. Authorities have vowed to continue promoting the ban and intensifying inspections and confiscations.
Mountain areas have seen frequent incidents of dogs and cats being injured by steel-jaw traps or metal snares. From January to July, the office received 21 reports and confiscated 19 traps and 23 metal snares. These powerful spring-loaded traps can cause severe injuries, amputations, or even fatal infections.
According to the Animal Protection Act (動物保護法), using steel-jaw traps without official permission is prohibited. Offenders face fines ranging from NT$15,000 to NT$75,000. If a trap causes the death or severe mutilation of a dog or cat, the offender can be prosecuted, with penalties of up to two years in prison and fines between NT$200,000 and NT$2 million.
The office conducts monthly inspections of hardware stores and organizes educational activities for hardware vendors and rural residents to raise awareness about the steel-jaw trap ban. It also encourages the public to report any illegal sale, possession, or use of traps via the 24-hour animal protection hotline 1959.
The Miaoli Animal Care and Health Office's ongoing efforts aim to protect animals from the dangers of illegal trapping and ensure compliance with the law.
