Keep Bozeman Beautiful: An Open Letter to Dog Owners

As the weather warms up, we're all eager to get outdoors and explore all that Bozeman has to offer. With its stunning landscapes and abundant hiking trails, it’s no wonder that the Bozeman area is home to so many dog owners.

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However, if you’ve spent any time walking along these trails, you’ve probably noticed something less charming, little bags of dog poop scattered along the way.

Keep Bozeman Beautiful: An Open Letter to Dog Owners

As Bozeman continues to grow, the problem has unfortunately gotten worse. More people with dogs on the trails means more waste left behind.

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As a responsible pet owner, I always do my best to clean up after my dog, especially in shared spaces like our beloved hiking trails. For me, that means not just picking up after my dog, but also packing out the waste, which is something I think we all need to be more mindful of.

I get it, carrying around a bag of dog poop isn't much fun, but when you take your dog on a hike, it's part of the responsibility you accept. Once spring arrives, if you go hiking near Drinking Horse, you'll be appalled by how many little bags of dog poop are littered along the trail.

It's frustrating because we all love spending time in this beautiful area, but maintaining the pristine nature of our trails requires each of us to do our part.

So, here’s a simple solution: always bring an extra bag or a Ziploc when you head out for a hike with your pet. It's a small gesture that goes a long way in preserving the beauty of our trails and public areas.

I understand Bozeman is experiencing a lot of growth, with plenty of newcomers in our community. Those of us who have lived here for a while should make an effort to lead by example, showing our neighbors the importance of respecting our environment.

By working together, we can ensure our trails remain clean and enjoyable for everyone, including pets, to enjoy.