A small dog named Luna, a white Jack Russell terrier and Chihuahua mix who went missing in Yellowstone National Park, was found alive and well after a month of searching. The family left her in a locked cabin room in the Canyon Village area on 10 September, but a housekeeper ignored the "do not disturb" sign and let the dog out.
Luna spent nearly five weeks in the park's wilderness. Volunteers, including Cathy Boucher of Montana, president of the Norris Ark Training and Recovery Center, put up notices and organized searches throughout Yellowstone. A park construction crew spotted the dog in an area where a new road was being built and helped set up a trap with the owners' belongings to attract her by scent.
14 October Boucher received a call: Luna had lain near the trap all day and seemed calm. The next day the dog was caught. She was in good shape and was immediately given a veterinary examination.
Luna's owners, who wished to remain anonymous, flew in from California to collect their pet. Todd Walton, marketing director of Yellowstone National Park Lodges, called the incident an accident and expressed joy at the happy ending to the story.
Boucher stresses that Yellowstone is an extremely dangerous place for pets. She advises leaving dogs at home, and if a pet does run away, not to chase it yourself but to contact professionals immediately.
Luna's story shows how important vigilance is even in seemingly safe vacation spots. The little dog was able to survive in the park's harsh conditions thanks to the help of people who did not leave her in the lurch.
