PA
BLOOD TRACKERS
The largest network of professional trackers
in the Keystone State.
TRACKING LAWS* FOR THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA
Know the rules before you track. These Pennsylvania laws help insure ethical recovery, respect for landowners, and the future of our hunting rights.
Pennsylvania allows the use of tracking dogs to help locate and recover wounded big game animals. Dogs used for recovery must remain on a leash and under the physical control of the handler while tracking. Off-lead tracking is not permitted. Tracking dogs are used strictly for recovery purposes and may not be used to chase or pursue healthy game.
Anyone tracking wounded game must follow Pennsylvania’s fluorescent orange requirements for the season in which the recovery takes place. During seasons where hunter orange is required, hunters and tracking dog handlers must wear the appropriate amount of orange clothing while conducting a recovery.
Pennsylvania does not require a separate tracking dog license or certification. A person using a tracking dog must follow all applicable hunting license requirements for the animal being recovered. A tracking dog handler may assist with locating wounded game but must comply with all Pennsylvania Game Commission regulations.
Tracking dogs may be used to recover wounded game during legal hunting hours. Recovery attempts outside of normal hunting hours or outside the open season may require notification and approval from the Pennsylvania Game Commission before beginning the track.
Using a tracking dog does not give hunters or handlers permission to enter private property. If a wounded animal crosses onto land where the hunter does not have permission, the hunter or tracking team must obtain landowner approval before continuing the recovery.
Pennsylvania does not allow drones to be used for locating or recovering wounded game animals. Hunters may not use unmanned aircraft to search for deer, bear, elk, or other wildlife as part of the recovery process.
* Disclaimer: The information provided by TRAKR is intended as a general summary of state tracking laws and regulations and is not legal advice. Because laws and regulations may change, hunters and trackers should always verify current statutes, regulations, and agency guidance before using dogs, drones, or other recovery methods in their state.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PA BLOOD TRACKERS
PA Blood Trackers has become one of the largest and most recognized deer/bear recovery networks in Pennsylvania. The organization exists to connect hunters with trained tracking dog handlers to recover wounded big game animals that might otherwise be lost. The group maintains a statewide network of tracking teams covering the Keystone State, helping hunters quickly locate experienced handlers when a recovery is needed. Many listed handlers have years of experience behind their dogs, and some hold certifications through organizations such as United Blood Trackers.
PA Blood Trackers has grown beyond just a Facebook group into an organized statewide community focused on ethical game recovery, hunter education, and promoting the responsible use of tracking dogs. Through integration with the TRAKR app, hunters can quickly submit recovery requests and connect with available tracking teams throughout Pennsylvania.
Size and Impact
Some publicly available PA Blood Trackers information includes:
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The Facebook group has grown into one of Pennsylvania’s primary resources for connecting hunters with tracking dog handlers.
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The network helps coordinate recoveries throughout Pennsylvania’s diverse hunting regions, including big woods, mountains, agricultural areas, and thick cover.
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Pennsylvania has one of the largest deer hunting communities in the country, creating a strong demand for experienced tracking teams.
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The organization continues to promote ethical recovery practices and educate hunters on the benefits of using trained tracking dogs.
Pennsylvania Tracking Dog Regulations
Pennsylvania legalized the use of dogs for recovering wounded big game relatively recently (2018), providing hunters with another tool to help locate and recover animals that might otherwise be lost.
Pennsylvania regulations allow leashed tracking dogs to be used for the recovery of wounded deer, bear, and elk.
Why Pennsylvania Requires Leashes
Pennsylvania historically prohibited the use of dogs for pursuing big game. The leash requirement was established to clearly separate recovery tracking from hunting or chasing healthy animals.
Keeping tracking dogs leashed allows handlers to help hunters recover wounded game while maintaining control of the dog and protecting Pennsylvania’s wildlife resources.
Certification and Training
Pennsylvania does not require state-issued tracking dog certification. However, many PA Blood Trackers members voluntarily pursue additional training, testing, and certification through organizations such as United Blood Trackers.
Experience, training, and time spent on real-world recoveries remain some of the most valuable qualifications for successful tracking teams.
Interesting Facts About PA Blood Trackers
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Pennsylvania has one of the largest deer hunting populations in the United States.
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The network covers deer, bear, and elk recovery.
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Pennsylvania’s mountains, hardwood forests, and thick vegetation create challenging conditions where tracking dogs are extremely valuable.
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PA Blood Trackers has helped organize one of the strongest blood-tracking communities in the Northeast.
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The organization has expanded with technology through the TRAKR platform, allowing hunters to request help from multiple available trackers rather than relying only on individual phone calls or social media posts.