Pets

Pets are an important part of our lives, providing companionship, love, and joy to their caretakers. While park regulations due not permit pets on Alcatraz Island, there are many pet-friendly areas within Golden Gate National Recreation Area to go for a walk.

"Why can't I take my pet with me?"

For many visitors, seeing wildlife is a highlight of a national park visit. Unfortunately, the mere presence of pets in the park alters the natural behavior of native wildlife. Alcatraz is a sensitive habitat for birds, who nest on the island due to its lack of predators. In national parks, the native species have priority.

Odors left behind by dogs may prevent wildlife from returning to important habitats.

Even though your pet follows instructions and is very well behaved, others do not know your pet and may feel uneasy when encountering an animal in crowded areas.

Service Animals

Service animals accompanying an individual with a disability, as defined by Federal law and Department of Justice regulations (Title 28 Code of Federal Regulations § 36.104), are allowed wherever visitors or employees are allowed. For more information on the DOJ ADA Revised Service Animal Regulations, please click here.