I agree with Dave.. I have been faced with that situation 2 times myself and had a few friends who at oen point or another ran into the same thing. Each time only one of us(if more that one) tracking would carry a firearm, usually a pistol and quickly put an end to the animals' suffering. Knowing the chances of being heard and a possible ticket were thought about but not given a second thought since we owe it to the animal to not let it suffer, so if given a fine I would go to court and what explain and either have a understanding judge or pay my fine!