Pet lovers all across the country are faced with the dilemma of what to do with their pets when on vacation. Some of you would love to bring your pet with you on vacation to Yellowstone but are probably wondering what the rules for pets in the park are. So in this post I will tell you all that you need to know about pets in Yellowstone. The good news for pet lovers like me is that the park does allow you to bring your pet.
It is possible for your pets to pass along diseases to the wildlife within Yellowstone National Park. Because of this it is required to carry proof of vaccination. It is possible that a ranger may ask to see vaccination documentation.
If you think that these rules are strict remember that they have been created for you and your pets safety. Consider this; did you know that bears and wolves do not like dogs? So if you are out hiking in the backcountry your dog could lead a bear right to you. It’s possible that your dog could outrun a bear but unless you have superhuman speed you are going to be in a world of hurt. If you want to travel with your pets there are local kennels just outside the park where you can kennel your pets.
Hospitals/Kennels Veterinarians
Veterinary Clinic: 208-624-1711
Driggs Veterinary Clinic: 208-354-2212
Fremont Veterinary Clinic: 208-624-7218
Riverview Kennel: 208-624-3876
Ashton Veterinary Clinic: 208-652-7372
There are some restrictions about bringing your pet into the park. Take a look at the following guidelines:
- Pets are allowed in public areas.
- Pets are allowed in parking lots.
- Pets are allowed within 100 feet of roads.
- You must keep your pets on a leash at all times and the leash must not exceed six feet.
- Pets cannot be tied to a tree or other fixtures without someone there watching them.
- Don’t leave your pet in a kennel outside of your car.
- Don’t leave your pet in a vehicle without proper ventilation. When parking look for areas in the shade.
- Your Pets are prohibited on all of the backcountry trails.
- Pets are prohibited on boardwalks or trails. (Except at Old Faithful Geyser here they are allowed on the boardwalk.)
- Pets are allowed in campgrounds just keep in mind that the same rules apply.
Insiders Secret:
Thermal areas of Yellowstone are very dangerous for pets. In fact dogs have difficulties distinguishing between water that is cool and water that is hot. The last thing that any pet lover would want to have happen is to have there pet jump into a pool of scalding hot water. So when you are around the hotpots or any kind of water be sure that you pay extra close attention to your pets.
Thanks for visiting www.yourtation.com!
Resources:
1. http://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm