PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT SENDS REMINDER TO DOG OWNERS

Released on February 20, 1997

Saskatchewan Environment and Resource Management (SERM) today issued a
reminder to dog owners that it is illegal to allow their pets to harass
deer and other big game.

Every winter, particularly years with heavy snow cover, conservation
officers receive reports from all parts of the province of dogs chasing
and sometimes killing deer or other big game. The province's wildlife
regulations hold dog owners accountable for dogs chasing big game and
provincial authorities are authorized to put down dogs that do so.

Dave Harvey, provincial enforcement co-ordinator for SERM, advises dog
owners to be aware of the possibility their dogs may be chasing big
game and to take steps to prevent them from doing so.

"Deer are particularly vulnerable at this time of year and the
additional stress of being chased can affect their winter survival even
if they escape," Harvey said.

Anyone who is aware of fisheries, wildlife or environmental violations
is encouraged to call the province's toll-free Turn In Poachers (TIP)
line at 1-800-667-7561 or contact their local conservation officer
directly.

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For more information, contact:

Dave Harvey, SERM
Prince Albert
Phone: (306) 953-2993