TTN-Taxidermists and hunters are fighting to stop a new rule in Tennessee that prohibits the movement of legally taken animals from out of state into TN. The rule was put in place to stop the spread of chronic wasting disease. The implications for taxidermists are obvious and devastating . Taxidermists and hunters are working together to try to get this ban lifted.
As chronic wasting disease spreads, states often take a reactionary approach to dealing with the problem. Here in Wisconsin, much was done to try to stop the spread of the disease when it was discovered here in 2002 . Efforts to stop the spread were not successful. It appears the disease is not making a significant impact on the deer population in WI.
Common sense precautions should be used when handling any dead animal as a taxidermist. Wear latex gloves and an apron, work in a well ventilated room , and keep a clean operation.
