TO THE EDITOR: THE NORTHFIELD NEWS PET AND animal lovers BEWARE! Trapping season in Vermont begins on October 24 and all animals, including your pets, are in danger.

Traps indiscriminately snap shut on ANY animal who is unfortunate enough to be attracted to the bait. Despite what trappers may want you to believe, common sense tells you that what follows for the victim— regardless of the species— is excruciating pain and fear. In fact, the experience is so unbearable that many animals try to escape by chewing off their own trapped limb, only to hobble away and die of gangrene or starvation.

Unfortunately, many of our cats and dogs, as well as targeted and non-targeted wildlife, will endure this cruelty.

Please, do not let your pet be one of them! Keep your pets indoors, or on a leash throughout the season for their safety and your peace of mind. Sadly, wild animals will not be protected and therefore many will needlessly suffer a cruel and premature death.

SHARON MACNAIR,

President Green Mountain Animal Defenders