As a passionate wildlife rehabber, I am disconcerted by the practice of the Possum Trot Coon Dog Treeing Contest being allowed in society, especially as we have entered 2024. This event promotes the torture and killing of innocent wild animals - an act that many wildlife conservators like myself find deplorable and distressing.

Raccoons are intelligent and sentient creatures, holding roughly 438 million neurons in their brains—the closest comparison would be the complex brains of primates and humans [source: Scientific American]. The question must be asked - would it be socially acceptable to bait dogs with human babies at a public event? The answer is a resounding 'No'. Why then should it be permitted with raccoons?

Our relentless efforts often feel like a losing battle against such public displays of violence towards wildlife. We are not only advocating for these animals, we are fighting for a better, more empathetic example for future generations. The gross mistreatment of animals is simply unacceptable in our evolving society.

Despite the potential sacrifices involved, we need to take a stand against these inhumane practices. We are calling for an immediate halt to the Possum Trot Coon Dog Treeing Contest. Respect for raccoon lives must be upheld, their needless suffering at these events should no longer be tolerated.

Please sign this petition and join our plight to champion respect for all wildlife life, starting with eliminating this cruel and outdated contest.