Risks Of Bringing Dogs To Wyoming's National Parks Explained

This may ruffle a few feathers with dog lovers, but there are some places you travel to where you're encouraged to leave your dog at home. One of those places is in the National Parks, especially those in Wyoming.

If you decide you need your dog with you while you visit the parks, don't be shocked when you find out that your dog is going to have to spend a lot of time in the car by itself while waiting for you to come back.

Now, you may be thinking that the National Park Service is just being a fun hater, but in reality, they're looking out for your beloved pets. There are huge threats to pets in the park, including bison, wolves, bears, and boiling hot springs.

We've seen too many stories over the years of dogs being attacked by larger animals or falling into hot springs. Most of the time, the outcome isn't pleasant, and it not only results in the loss of the pet but also becomes a traumatic experience for other park visitors.

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So, if you decide you need your dog with you in the park, the NPS has some guidelines you'll need to follow.

Pets are only allowed in developed areas and must stay within 100 feet (30.5 meters) of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds.
Pets must be physically controlled at all times: they must be in a car, in a crate, or on a leash no longer than six feet.
Pets may not be left unattended or tied to objects.
Pets are not allowed on boardwalks, hiking trails, in the backcountry, or in thermal areas. Carried pets (in arms, strollers, backpacks, carriers, etc.) are also not allowed in these areas.
Pets may not be left in a situation where food, water, shade, ventilation, and other basic needs are inadequate. Pets may remain in vehicles for short periods, but we recommend that someone stay behind to personally ensure their well-being.
Owners must bag and dispose of pet waste.

The park doesn't have kennels available for boarding, but you may be able to find them in one of the communities outside of the park.

Service Animals

Trained service animals assisting individuals with disabilities are welcome in Yellowstone and must be leashed at all times. A service animal is defined as a dog trained to perform tasks the individual cannot do themselves—such as providing balance support, carrying gear, or alerting to medical conditions, such as seizures. Emotional support animals, therapy animals, or companion animals are not considered service animals and are not allowed in buildings, on boardwalks, on nature trails, or in the backcountry.

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