Guard dogs are used to protect livestock from predators, like wolves, coyotes and mountain lions. But these working dogs are being taken to shelters by well-meaning outdoor recreationalists.
Steve Stuebner, a Idaho Rangeland Resources Commission spokesperson, said this creates big issues for sheep herders, who may have to travel hours to pick their dog up.
“They don't want them to take their dog out of the woods, that the dogs know where they are and they're keeping track of those dogs and they're really important to their operation," said Stuebner.
He said it’s normal for a guard dog to be separated from its herd for a short period of time. If a sheep gets wounded, for example, the dog may stay behind to protect it.
If someone sees a seemingly lost canine in the backcountry and is concerned, Stuebner said most will have identification with the owner’s phone number.
“The ranchers would prefer to get a phone call versus having their dog taken away," said Stuebner.
More people are heading into the backcountry because of COVID-19, said Stuebner, so educating the public about guard dog etiquette is crucial.
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