Yellowstone National Park volunteers are scrambling to locate Luna, a 10‑year‑old Jack Russell terrier from California who has been missing for about a month. The search, coordinated by volunteer coordinator Katie Boucher, has taken the team across park intersections, employee housing, and lodge entrances.
Community effort and urgent timeline
Boucher, who also serves as president of the Norris Ark Training and Recovery Center in nearby Norris, Montana, says Luna’s survival instincts are strong, but the approaching winter threatens to end the search. “Hopefully she has decided that winter in Yellowstone National Park is not a good vacation,” Boucher said.
According to the dog’s owners, Luna was left in a cabin with a “do‑not‑disturb” sign while they explored the park. An accidental opening of the door by housekeeping let her out, and staff chased her for over two hours before the owners returned to find her missing.
Search tactics and recent sightings
The volunteers have set a humane trap using Luna’s family scent, avoiding food that could attract bears. Recent sightings suggest Luna is retracing the family’s steps, slipping into eateries and lodges they visited the day before she disappeared.
Local resident Marie Jaskula, who runs a general store in the park area, has posted signs at every entrance urging visitors to keep an eye out for the dog. “It’s really hard to stress the importance of do not chase,” Jaskula said, noting that many people instinctively call her name and pursue her, which can drive her deeper into the wilderness.
Winter looming
Temperatures have held steady, but a sudden drop could end Luna’s chances of survival. Boucher notes that the volunteer’s seasonal RV park, where she is currently staying, will close next Monday, after which she will need to find alternative housing.
Despite the time crunch, Boucher remains hopeful. “Her behavior pattern suggests to me that she is looking for her family,” she said.
How you can help
Visitors are encouraged to watch for Luna’s distinctive black and white coat, listen for her bark, and report any sightings to the volunteer team. The coordinated effort underscores the community’s commitment to protecting all members—human and animal—within Yellowstone’s treasured landscape.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
