I'm not a fan of spiders, but is this a Wolf Spider - Pardosa distincta ... there seems to be lots of types of Wolf Spiders. Sorry I'm not happy about this fella being in my yard, I guess they are good for gardens...but not for my peace of mind. Thanks for your response.

Not a pardosa, note the thick legs and thoracial pattern. This is a hogna of some sort, Probably lenta but it could be just another carolina

Thank you for your response. I posted the photo on Flickr and really don't like looking at it! Scary! To know this creature is in my backyard petrifies me even though I know it can't hurt me. I have a cat and wonder if a bite from this spider might hurt her? Again, thank you for your response.

This questions comes up now and then. I'm sure if the cat started playing with the spider or tries to eat it, it might get bitten. I don't think the cat is in serious danger from this type of spider bite, but this might be a better question for your cat's vet. Animals don't respond to venom the same way people do.

My wild guess is that spider bites don't pose much danger to animals (unless it's a widow or recluse). The reason behind this is because if spider bites were a big problem for cats I think we'd all be aware of it by now.

Thanks so much for your response. My little girl kitty loves to play with things outside and since this was the first Wolf Spider I'd seen in my yard, I got a little worried. It runs so fast and that's just what she chases after.

Haven't seen it for a couple of days now and hope it ran into a neighbors yard!!!!

I am not sure exact species. If body is an inch long, I'd guess some sort of Hogna. Someone on the boards may recognize this spider. Cheers