Dogs Poisoned along Greys River Road

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS: Mary Cernicek (307) 739-5564

DATE: April 8, 2004

Jason Anderson (307)739-5542

Alpine, Wyoming. Several dogs have died over the last few days after ingesting

unidentified, contaminated food items found along the Greys River Road and

the Little Greys River on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. These food

items were likely contaminated with a highly toxic substance that resulted

in death to the affected canines. The Forest is cautioning visitors that

recreate in these areas to keep away from any food items found along these

roadways and restrain pets and other animals to prevent them from finding a

contaminated item. The origin and location of these contaminated food

sources is under investigation and the Bridger-Teton National Forest is

cooperating with law enforcement officials, including the Lincoln County

Sheriff's Office, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department throughout this

process.

Bridger-Teton National Forest Supervisor Kniffy Hamilton was dismayed at

news of the poisoning stating, "While I certainly would like some answers

from whoever participated in this deliberate act, my immediate concern is

for the safety and well-being of our Forest visitors and our animals- both

wild and domestic," said Hamilton.

Visitors that encounter any out of place food items in these areas are

cautioned not to touch them or handle them in any way, as the toxin could

potentially be absorbed through the skin. As a precaution, visitors should

avoid any suspicious food items found along forest roadways, as they may in

fact be contaminated.

Anyone with details on the location of these suspicious food items or

information about the person(s) responsible for the heinous act is urged to

contact Lincoln County Sheriff's Department at (307) 885-5231. An

additional call to Forest Service Special Agent, Dave Griffel at

208-542-5822 and Bridger-Teton Law Enforcement Officer, Shane Wasem at

307-739-5573 will also help in the investigation.

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Jason C. Anderson

Public Affairs Officer

Bridger-Teton National Forest

P.O. Box 1888

Jackson, WY 83001

(307) 739-5542 office