WDFW allows cougar dog training

OLYMPIA – The state Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking public input on new rules that would allow handlers and their dogs to train for cougar tracking.

The agency hires contract dog handlers to help track cougars involved in attacks on livestock and pets, or when cougars threaten the public. But under previous state laws, trackers were not allowed to train specifically for cougars.

The Legislature changed that law in 2018.

Once a new rule is approved, agency staff will administer a new training program, officials said, noting a “limited number” of handlers would be approved to particip...