Humane Killing Methods

If you use restraining devices, you must be able to dispatch a trapped furbearer safely, ethically, and humanely.

Remember, if you choose to post any of the images on social media, please be extremely thoughtful about your choices.
The best method is to shoot the animal in the head with a .22-caliber firearm. Aim between the eyes and up a little.
If the animal has bitten someone or if you have reason to suspect rabies, shoot the animal in the heart instead. Always shoot skunks in the heart; these animals can carry the rabies virus without showing any symptoms.
Lay the animal with its head facing downhill if possible. This will allow the animal to bleed out while you remake the set.
For the ride home, lay the animal on used cloth or cardboard.
When you use a firearm to dispatch trapped animals, you should know and follow all firearm safety rules.
If you are not able to carry a firearm on the trapline, you will have to dispatch animals using a different method. One way is to strike smaller furbearers, such as raccoons and foxes, at the base of the skull with a heavy wooden or metal tool.

Always decide and plan how you will dispatch animals before setting your traps.

Safe Firearm Handling Practices

If you use a firearm to dispatch trapped animals, follow these safety guidelines.

Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. This is true even if the firearm is not loaded.
Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
Keep the firearm unloaded until you are ready to use it.
Keep the safety on. Keep fingers outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.
When you shoot at an animal in a trap, be aware that bullets could ricochet off the trap or nearby rocks. Ask any companions to stand behind you.
Be sure of the target and what is in front of it and beyond it. Take only safe shots.
Do not make contact shots by touching the muzzle to the animal. Always fire from at least several inches away.
Wear eye and ear protection.
Take a hunter education course to learn more about firearm safety.