August 25th marks the 100-year anniversary of the National
Park Service, and as outdoors-people, many of us will want to use the
anniversary as an excuse to get outdoors and #liveunleashed with our dogs. But the reality of the situation is, most national parks have
restrictions on how our best friends can join us.
So what do you do when your best adventure traveler is a four-legged companion? Here are a
few tips for national park travel with your dog.
Tips for National Park Traveling with Your Dog
Do
your research beforehand
Some national parks allow dogs; it’s simply restricted to particular
areas or trails. For example, the Grand Canyon National Park is actually a
place you can take your best friend, but only on the rim trails, and always on
a leash. Doing your research is imperative! There might not always
be a sign to tell you where your dog is allowed to go, and fines can get hefty.
Stay informed and be a responsible dog owner so that dogs and their human companions can enjoy these areas for years to come.
Some
parks have kennels
The number of national parks with kennels for your dog
to stay at while you see the whole park may feel limited, but be sure to check
out nearby cities, too. Sending shot records to these facilities will be a part
of the process, so again—do your research and plan your trip to allow your dog
to have fun with you in the accessible areas, and so you can have your own time
to explore the backcountry or steeper trails.
Know
your campground rules
Camping near or inside a national park is half the fun!
While most campgrounds allow dogs, they cannot be left unattended. Again, look
into pet-friendly lodging in the area. For example, the Shenandoah National
Park in Virginia has lodging, allows dogs inside their campgrounds, and even
allows leashed dogs on most of their trails. It can be done!
Pet-friendly
hostels or hotels
Let’s say after you hit the trail for the day you’d like to
cozy up in a bed instead of inside a tent. There are hotels and hostels out
there that allow dogs. While extra fees may apply, consider the option because
it solves the where-to-leave-your-dog problem. If your dog is kennel-trained,
that’s a big bonus! Having a safe place for them to rest in while you’re out
will aid their comfort. Try aiming for an individual room in a hostel. If your
dog is prone to barking while you’re away, try a safe citronella spray collar.
Pack
accordingly
For those times when your dog can join you inside the park,
don’t forget to pack a collapsible water/food dish, plenty of water for the two
of you, snacks, your dog’s harness or collar, and the appropriately-sized leash
(parks usually require a 6-footer or less). Don’t forget the bed or kennel for
sleeping the day out in the sun off and never keep your dog in a car in seemingly mild temperatures. Even if the temperature outside is only 75 degrees, it can quickly reach unbearable temperatures inside.
