Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Rules & Regulations
In the national parks pets must be leashed at all times. They are not allowed on any board-
walks or backcountry trails, or more than 100ft from roads or paved paths. Needless to
say, you will have to clean up after your beloved.
Also, you are not allowed to tie your pet (aka bear bait) to objects or leave him/her un-
attended. If temperatures are cool, a pet may stay inside a ventilated vehicle, but that's
rarely the case in summer.
Service animals such as seeing eye dogs are welcome.
Health & Safety
All pets should have their vaccinations before travel. Like people, animals need condition-
ing for the outdoors. Break your pet in slowly with easier treks where allowed.
Adequate food, shelter and water should always be handy (but never left where it can
attract wild animals). Bring a stash of plastic bags to clean up waste and have a water
dish. Never let your pet get near thermal features - they won't know it's hot until it's too
late.
Trails & Parks
A glance at an atlas reveals city parks or rivers and lakes that can offer pets a refreshing
dip. Once there, check signs for restrictions and local leash laws.
Shoshone National Forest, Bridger-Teton National Forest, Gallatin National Forest and
Caribou-Targhee National Forest all allow dogs on leashes. In Jedediah Smith Wilderness,
dogs must be under voice control at all times. Always have one eye out for wildlife before
your retriever exercises its instincts.
Run by a local pet-advocacy group,
Sophie's Place
(250 Scott Ln;
www.pawsofjh.org
;
daylight hours)
is Jackson's only dog park; its website proves a useful resource.
Accommodations
Finding accommodations is another challenge. Pets are allowed in Yellowstone's cabins,
but not in the hotels. Most campgrounds allow dogs but do not permit them to go loose.
Our lodging reviews indicate when pets are allowed, usually for a fee ($10 to $35).
Reserve these accommodations well in advance, given their shortage.
