As more people head outside to enjoy our community trails, it’s a good time to remember one simple habit that makes a big difference for everyone: keeping your pets under control, even when they’re off-leash.

Many of our favorite places to explore — including the SCLT Big Goose Natural Area and much of the Soldier Ridge Trail System — are shared spaces. Families explore, school groups learn, wildlife moves quietly through the brush, and at certain times of year, livestock may be grazing along the trail.

A friendly dog with lots of energy may not mean any harm, but even a short chase can stress cattle, disturb wildlife, or create unsafe and uncomfortable situations for other visitors. It only takes a few seconds for a curious pup to get too close to a deer, flush nesting birds, or approach another dog or person who isn’t expecting company.

Keeping pets under control doesn’t mean limiting their enjoyment. In fact, most dogs have an even better time when their humans are paying attention, engaging with them, and guiding them where they can safely explore. Calling your dog back regularly, checking that you have voice control, and leashing up in areas with limited visibility or known wildlife activity can prevent problems long before they start. These small steps ensure that everyone — two-legged and four-legged — can enjoy the outdoors with confidence.

Forgot your leash at home? No problem! SCLT’s Loan-A-Leash program places leashes at many of our trailheads that visitors can use. Please return them when you’re done.

Being a good trail neighbor also helps keep our open spaces open. Landowners and agencies are far more likely to welcome recreation when they know visitors are responsible and respectful. When dogs stay under control, wildlife remains calmer, livestock stays safe, and everyone has a better experience on the trail. That kind of goodwill goes a long way in a county where ranching and recreation often happen side-by-side.

So the next time you head out for a walk, keep your pets close, enjoy the views, and help protect the trails and open spaces that make Sheridan County such a wonderful place to live. By being thoughtful stewards of the outdoors, we help ensure these special places remain open, healthy, and welcoming for generations to come.