Legislation introduced by West Virginia State Delegate Brandon Steele would permit the tracking of wounded deer or bear using a leashed dog. House Bill 4116 has been referred to the House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources where it awaits a hearing.
Take Action Today! West Virginia sportsmen should call their state delegates and ask them to SUPPORT House Bill 4116. West Virginia members can contact their delegate by using the Sportsmen’s Alliance Legislative Action Directory.
West Virginia law currently prohibits the use of a dog to hunt or chase deer in any manner, and allows a resource officer to kill any dog thought to be chasing deer for hunting purposes if the animal cannot be captured. HB 4116 would allow a sportsman who believes he has fatally wounded a deer or bear to use a leashed dog to track down and recover the animal.
“Sportsmen and women believe in the ethical harvest of game animals and this bill will give them another tool to aide in the quick recovery of their quarry,” said Jacob Hupp, associate director of state services at the Sportsmen’s Alliance. “Representative Steele’s legislation is an effective and sensible way to ensure that fewer game animals are lost.”
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.