YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK — Yellowstone National Park (YNP) shared tips for protecting a pet within the park’s boundaries this summer.

“Yellowstone is a wild place, and unfortunately pets have been lost, injured and killed in the park,” YNP wrote via Facebook.

If considering bringing a pet to YNP, keep these regulations in mind:

  • Pets are only allowed in developed areas and must stay within 100 feet (30.5 meters) of roads, parking areas and campgrounds.
  • Pets are not allowed on boardwalks, hiking trails, in the backcountry or in thermal areas, regardless of being on a leash or carried in arms, strollers, backpacks, carriers, etc.
  • Pets must be physically controlled at all times, either in a car, crate or on a leash.
  • Pets cannot be left unattended or tied to objects, and they cannot be left in a situation where food, water, shade, ventilation or other basic needs are inadequate.
  • Owners must bag and dispose of pet waste.

“Following these guidelines will help ensure the safety of your pet, park wildlife and others!” YNP wrote.

Learn more about bringing a pet to Yellowstone here.

Leigh Reagan Smith is a wildlife and community news reporter. Originally a documentary filmmaker, she has lived in the valley since 1997. Leigh enjoys skiing, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and interviewing interesting people for her podcast, SoulRise.