Dogs on the Caribou National Forest have become a problem this winter. Over the weekend, several people were bitten by dogs at the popular Teton Canyon trailhead on different days. Teton Basin District Ranger Jay Pence says using Teton Canyon as a dog park is not acceptable and ruins the experience for others. Now, he says the forest is going to increase enforcement efforts there. Forest users are reminded that animals must be on a leash no longer than six feet in developed recreation sites. Developed recreation areas include areas within 200 yards of a trailhead or designated campground. Dogs are also required to be under the owner’s control elsewhere on National Forests Lands. This regulation is consistent for trailheads and campgrounds nationwide on the National Forest. Pence says a small population of irresponsible pet owners is having a big influence on developed recreation areas in the Teton Basin. Consequently, Pence says the Forest Service will be implementing a seasonal closure on the South Valley Trail System to dogs from December 1st through April 15th. Pence points out that this is a relatively new trail system for winter access as grooming began in 2018. He adds that since this groomed trail opportunity did not exist for dog owners in the past, implementing a seasonal closure now will help get ahead of the issue before it becomes problematic.
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