A Park County, Colorado, search and rescue (SAR) team recently spent 10 hours and covered 11 miles to rescue an exhausted dog from the backcountry, highlighting their willingness to assist pets in distress. In contrast, Wyoming SAR teams prioritize human rescues exclusively and do not respond to calls solely for animals, citing limited resources, risk to personnel, and the need to focus on saving human lives. Wyoming SAR experts emphasize that pet owners should be responsible for their animals’ safety and preparedness when venturing outdoors.

Wyoming SAR operations are volunteer-based and funded by donations, with no fees charged for rescues to avoid discouraging calls for help. Outdoor enthusiasts like Greybull’s John Eckman accept the inherent risks of hiking with dogs and stress the importance of training, knowing a dog’s limits, and using tracking devices. While SAR teams may assist animals only if they are involved in a human emergency, pet owners are urged to prevent avoidable situations by preparing adequately and understanding that SAR resources are primarily dedicated to human safety.