Many of our local favorite trails head directly into wilderness areas: Eagles Nest, Holy Cross, and Ptarmigan Peak. Here, it’s required by federal regulation to have your dog on a physical hand-held leash no longer than 6 feet. The leash regulation applies year-round and at all times: “Pets are required to be on a leash to protect wildlife, other visitors’ experience, and your privilege to have them with you.” 

Nevertheless, our U.S. Forest Service rangers and volunteer wilderness rangers find that about 30% of dogs are unleashed in our three local wilderness areas. And we’ve heard just about every excuse for why some dog guardians can’t bring themselves to leash up.

For instance, “But my dog needs to run.” We understand, and there are many places in Eagle and Summit counties where your dog can enjoy an off-leash romp. Not only are there municipal and county areas that allow off-leash dogs, but only one-third of the White River National Forest is protected as wilderness area. 

“Don’t worry, he’s friendly,” or “Sorry, she’s just a puppy.” These comments often come shouted as an unleashed pet carnivore barrels down the trail, sometimes just before the “friendly” paws hit your chest. Some people are scared of dogs. Others are allergic. Some just don’t like being tackled. Leashing your dog helps everyone enjoy the wilderness experience.

“My dog stays with me.” Your dog may (mostly) stay at leash length, but other owners will see your unleashed dog and decide it’s ok for their, less well-trained pups to be unleashed, too.

“My dog might chase a (pika, grouse, deer), but would never hurt it.”:  OK, just because you see an animal escape from your playful pup doesn’t mean it’s unharmed. The Latin name for dog, Canis lupus familiaris, is one word from wolf,  Canus lupus. Wildlife forced to escape from your pup expend precious calories and energy, and risk injury. Being chased triggers an intense stress response, one that may cause pregnant wildlife to miscarry. 

“My dog can take on anything out here.” We all love to imagine our dogs gracefully trotting through the wilderness like they’re auditioning for “Call of the Wild.” That said, survival instincts of most domesticated dogs are — no offense — somewhat limited.  Every year, off-leash dogs end up on the losing end of wildlife encounters, often with deadly results. Some go nose-to-nose with porcupines and end up with a face full of painful quills. Others try to take on moose, and get trampled or, worse yet, bring the angry moose back to you. Leashing your dog helps save on vet bills or worse.

Letting your dog chase wildlife can result in a fine in the thousands of dollars, and jail time.

“He’s on a radio collar.” This response often follows an unleashed dog bounding down the trail, no owner in sight. Radio collars do not meet the requirement for a hand-held leash.

“My dog pulls.” Yep, an untrained dog may pull. Solution? Take time to train your pup — free tips are available online.

“She knows where I am.” Every year, lost dogs are reported in local wilderness areas. And remember, it’s hunting season — don’t let your unleashed dog become an unwitting target.

We are incredibly privileged to be able to recreate with our beloved pups in three local wilderness areas protected by the 1964 Wilderness Act.

So, next time you hit the trail in one of the beautiful but fragile areas, please leash up. Your dog will still have the time of their life. And the local wildlife? They, and other human users, will thank you.

Frances Hartogh is a board member and volunteer wilderness ranger for Eagle Summit Wilderness Alliance.