Service Animals

Anywhere you visit, your service animal may follow.

Service animals are permitted in all national parks, monuments and recreation areas.

If needed, please refer to the definition of service animal. For more information on what defines a service animal in the national parks, please see our page on pets in the park.

Please keep in mind the following aspects when it comes to your service animal within Death Valley.

 

Water

• Water can be obtained at all campgrounds (except Thorndike and Mahogany Flat), all visitors’ centers/ranger stations, and at all of the hotels within the park. Potability status is variable.
• Avoid using natural water sources (creeks, puddles, springs, etc.) throughout the park because they could carry water-borne diseases like giardia.
• Don’t leave water or food unattended. This attracts coyotes and ravens. Place food bowls in your vehicle or camper during overnight hours.
• Death Valley is one of the hottest places in the world. Please carry extra fresh water for your group and furry friend!

Waste

• Every rest area, campground, hotel, and visitor center throughout the park has trash cans for disposing animal waste, however, plastic bags are not provided. Please remember to bring your own doggy bags.

Terrain

• Park trails are not maintained and may consist of dry falls, mixed gravel, sand, large boulders, and rocks. More descriptions can be found on our mobility and physical accessibility page.

Leash

• Service animals must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 ft at all times.

Wildlife

• Animals can harass wildlife by making noise or scaring wildlife away.

• Be careful where they sniff! Venomous snakes, spiders, and scorpions use bushes and rocks for shelter and habitat.

Heat

• Please keep in mind that Death Valley is the hottest place in North America (record 134°F/ 57°C). Average summer temperatures between May- October regularly reach higher than 100°F/ 38°C.  Please refer to our weather page to better plan for your visit. 
• Just like people, service animals can experience heat stroke. Please refer to the American Red Cross’ page on how to detect and avoid heatstroke in pets.