Dog Lost in Yellowstone for Over a Month Found Alive

Luna, a 10-year-old Jack Russell terrier who went missing in Yellowstone National Park over a month ago, has been found alive. The dog's rescue on Wednesday, October 14, concluded a desperate search that spanned freezing temperatures and the presence of dangerous predators.

Yellowstone National Park spokesperson Linda Veress confirmed that the dog, affectionately named Luna, was located in the Canyon Village area and is reported to be alive and well. The successful recovery occurred just as the park prepared for its winter shutdown, adding urgency to the final days of the search.

The California family's pet disappeared on September 10 while they were visiting the park. Luna was left inside a cabin at Canyon Village Campground while her family visited Norris Geyser, an area where dogs are not permitted. A "Do Not Disturb" sign was placed on the cabin door.

However, housekeeping staff reportedly opened the cabin door, allowing Luna to escape. Park staff attempted to corral the dog for over two hours, but their efforts inadvertently caused her to flee the campground and enter the surrounding wilderness.

Following her disappearance, park visitors and employees reported multiple sightings of Luna, initially raising hopes for a swift recovery. Despite these sightings, a week after she went missing, her family, facing dwindling chances of survival due to the freezing weather and local wildlife, returned to California.

Luna's family then contacted Norris Ark Training and Recovery Center, a nonprofit animal rescue, whose president, Katie Boucher, took over the search efforts. The search faced significant challenges due to restrictions on the methods that could be employed within the national park. Food could not be used to bait traps, as it risked attracting bears, wolves, coyotes, and mountain lions, potentially endangering Luna further. Rescuers instead utilized the scent of Luna's family in their attempts to capture her. Additionally, the use of drones, a common tool in search operations, is prohibited inside Yellowstone.

The special permit granted by the National Park Service for the rescue operation was set to expire on October 31, with all equipment required to be removed by that date. The approaching winter closures of roads and campgrounds added further pressure to the timeline.

Following her recovery, Luna was taken to a veterinarian by Ms. Boucher. Specific details regarding her health and the exact circumstances of her capture have not yet been released.