One of the main reasons I havent hunted the west, is, my dogs arent snakeproofed, and have never had to deal with cactus. I always wonder about timber wolves, but, no issues to report personally so far-that doesnt mean it hasnt happened, here. I saw some trail camera pictures of a wolf near Backus, MN., in March of this year, that clearly showed a 150-185 lb animal. It was huge.
That and encounters with porcupines and skunks are about the biggest troubles MInnesota/Wisconsin/South Dakota will throw at you.
I know a few folks who have lost good dogs to snakebites. It didnt happen here.
About 45 degrees and sunny outside as I type, ran the dog, blessed with no ticks for the time being. Most of a foot of snow remains, and that should be the end of it.
Best,
Ted
