Pets

 

Regulations

Bringing a pet to Yellowstone may limit your activities in the park. To protect your pet, park wildlife, and the experience of others, please follow these regulations:

• 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 of time, but we recommend that someone stay behind to personally ensure their well being.
• Owners must bag and dispose of pet waste.

These policies exist to protect pets from being killed by predators like bears and coyotes, to protect them from being burned or killed in hot springs, to prevent the exchange of diseases between domestic animals and park wildlife, and to allow others to enjoy the park without the disruption of pets.

Service Animals

Trained service animals that perform tasks directly related to a person's disability are allowed throughout the park and in all park facilities; however, they must be leashed.

Boarding

There are no kennels in Yellowstone but this service is available in surrounding communities.

Toxic Plants

While native plants play an important ecological role in Yellowstone, some species that grow in campgrounds and other developed areas within the park are toxic to pets, including: common yarrow, water hemlock, and larkspur. Learn to identify these plants and keep your pets from eating them. If they have been ingested, seek medical attention immediately.

 

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